The hottest Writing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

Writing and living, and living and writing.

The Mind Nodes • 216 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Writer's block can cause doubts and challenges when trying to write coherently and creatively.
  2. Accessing feelings and imagination are key components to creating meaningful and engaging writing.
  3. Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome can be part of the journey to finding one's voice as a writer.

How to judge a book by its cover

Austin Kleon • 1358 implied HN points • 25 Oct 22
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Books can be seen as special kinds of zines, which makes them more relatable and less intimidating to create.
  2. Understanding how traditional publishing has evolved helps people realize there are many ways to share their stories.
  3. Making zines can be a fun way to learn about publishing and creativity, plus it's easy to do with kids.

A Course To Make Them Care

Everything Is Amazing • 760 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🚌 Education Writing
  1. Storytelling is more than just good writing; it's its own skill that can be developed. You can tell a great story even if the writing isn’t perfect.
  2. Storytelling isn’t just something for kids; it’s used in many professions, like therapy, business, and even law. It’s a tool that's relevant everywhere in life.
  3. You can learn to tell stories effectively; it’s not just a natural talent. Everyone has the potential to become a better storyteller with practice.

A Substack Sabbatical

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 746 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Taking a break, or a sabbatical, can help refresh your creativity. Just like nature needs rest, people often need time away from their usual work to recharge.
  2. Publishing consistently can be tough, and it's okay to change the schedule. Writing less often can lead to better quality pieces that you're prouder of.
  3. A sabbatical is a great time to explore new ideas and bring fresh energy to your projects. It can lead to exciting changes, like a new name or focus for your work.
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Let me hand-write and mail you something. | #99

Castles in the Sky • 34 implied HN points • 22 Dec 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. A writer is offering to handwrite and mail a custom, postcard-sized "100th issue" if you fill a short form with your name, email, mailing address, and something on your mind; submissions are free, confidential, and open for about two weeks.
  2. The project is meant to repay readers' attention, try a new medium, and build closer connections by writing personalized notes; the writer will also resurface favorite old issues while mailing and later share photos and lessons from the process.
  3. The effort is time-limited and sized to what the writer can manage (about 1,800 subscribers and a ~30% open rate), so if too many people respond they may need to pick who to reply to; there is no cost or catch, and postage and cards are already provided.

When Writing Fantasy, Kill Your Darlings. Literally.

The Bottom Feeder • 703 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Killing characters can add emotional weight to a story. When a character dies, it can make the readers feel more suspense and connect emotionally to the narrative.
  2. It's important to time character deaths well in a story. Too many deaths can numb the audience, while too few can make a story feel cluttered and lacking in stakes.
  3. Character deaths should serve a purpose. They should reflect the story's themes and impact the narrative, making the audience feel the reality of loss and its significance.

Atrophy of the Writing Muscle

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 593 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Taking a break from writing can feel refreshing and necessary, even for dedicated writers. It's okay to step back and focus on other things for a while.
  2. Writers can experience burnout, which can make it harder to get back into writing. It's important to recover and find a sustainable way to write again.
  3. Creativity may ebb and flow, and it's common for artists to pause after completing big projects. Slow and steady practice can help rebuild writing skills.

Adjusting the Levels in Revision

Counter Craft • 717 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Revision is a critical part of writing where your draft transforms into a book. It's exciting because you see your ideas take shape, but it can also feel tough as you have to make tough choices about what stays and what goes.
  2. Writers typically fall into two categories: cutters and expanders. Cutters like to trim down their drafts, while expanders focus on building up their stories with more detail.
  3. It's important to maintain a balanced narrative throughout your story. This means looking at how much dialogue, description, and action you have in each chapter to ensure the pacing and flow of the book feels consistent.

That Time of Year Again

The Commonplace • 529 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. The author has decided to only ask for support from readers once a year to avoid annoying them. This is meant to strike a balance between needing support and not bombarding people with requests.
  2. Despite a drop in paid subscribers because of infrequent posts, the author feels freer and continues to write for enjoyment rather than just for income. They've adjusted their subscription price to make it more accessible.
  3. The author believes in sticking to their artistic principles, even if it leads to less income. They value the community of long-term supporters and continue writing regardless of financial pressures.

A Question about The Question

Story Club with George Saunders • 55 implied HN points • 27 Nov 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. A good story often raises a question rather than providing a clear answer. This helps to create depth and complexity in the narrative.
  2. Writers should stay open to what their story is trying to express instead of forcing it to fit a predetermined question. This flexibility can lead to more organic and engaging storytelling.
  3. It's important not to get too caught up in finding the 'perfect' central question for a story. Focusing too much on this can hinder creativity and the natural evolution of the narrative.

How Not What

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 194 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. In storytelling, it’s often more interesting to focus on how events unfold rather than just what happens. This shift helps create a deeper connection to the story.
  2. Surprises can be exciting in stories, but relying solely on them can make them feel exhausting over time. Understanding how things happen can be more engaging.
  3. Asking 'how' questions in conversations can lead to richer discussions. These questions help get to know people better and uncover feelings and motivations.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 563 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Sharing resources is important during tough times, especially for those affected by disasters. It's good to help each other find places that need support.
  2. Being aware of what's happening around us, like natural disasters, helps us stay connected as a community. Taking action, even small steps, can make a difference for those in need.
  3. Consuming different kinds of media can enrich our lives and keep us informed. It's fun and interesting to share what we've been reading, watching, or listening to.

Welcome to Development Hell

Development Hell • 414 implied HN points • 04 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. The post is about the author sharing their thoughts on starting their journey on Substack and the inspiration behind it.
  2. The author invites readers to join and subscribe to their content with a 7-day free trial.
  3. The post also includes links for existing paid subscribers to sign in and access the full archives.

How I Write So Much as an Overthinker

The Algorithmic Bridge • 244 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Sticking to a writing routine can help you publish more often. Even if you start slow, increasing your output over time can make a big difference.
  2. Having a niche helps focus your writing and connect with a specific audience. It makes it easier to create content that resonates with readers.
  3. Finding time to write can be easier without other big commitments like kids or a full-time job. But it's still possible to write regularly while balancing other responsibilities.

Today, Satan

Message from the Underworld • 412 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Don't get distracted by celebrating too soon, stay focused till the end.
  2. Recognize when inspiration might be just another form of distraction.
  3. Balance work with other activities to avoid feeling overwhelmed or unproductive.

How I wrote "Looking for Alice"

Escaping Flatland • 412 implied HN points • 30 May 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Detailed accounts of a writer's decision-making process can be valuable for others.
  2. Writing advice often lacks specificity and can be frustrating for learners.
  3. Allowing ideas to flow naturally while writing can help maintain energy and coherence in a piece.

In Conversation With: Tyler Jones

So Here’s a Thing • 393 implied HN points • 10 Oct 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. In writing, sometimes the trigger for ideas can be something as simple as a horse on a foggy morning that sparks the imagination.
  2. Horror fiction allows for deep exploration of themes like loss and grief, presenting them in a way that can resonate with readers on a personal level.
  3. The spare prose in writing can allow readers to bring their own emotions and interpretations to the story, creating a more engaging and participatory experience.

How Steve Jobs Got It Wrong

Litverse • 399 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Writing by hand triggers more brain activity and memory recall than digital writing. Paper is more efficient for note-taking, being 25% faster than tablets or smartphones.
  2. Physical writing on paper makes it easier to remember and learn things, as it gives a spatial awareness that aids memory recall.
  3. Writing by hand fosters creativity, empathy, and deeper thinking compared to typing, as it engages distinct neural pathways linked to learning and memory.

Be My Mirror

Bet On It • 176 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. The author has been blogging for 20 years and wants feedback from long-time readers. Readers can share their thoughts on the best and worst posts they’ve read.
  2. The author is interested in how their writing has changed over time, both in content and quality. They hope readers will point out any highlights or low points.
  3. They encourage honesty and openness in the comments, asking readers to be candid about their experiences and opinions on the writing.

Rip it up and start again

Development Hell • 394 implied HN points • 14 Apr 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Starting writing with a minimal checklist can work well, often just needing the first scene, main character, tone, and a few story waypoints.
  2. Exploring the story as you write, rather than planning out every detail in advance, can lead to surprising discoveries and maintain the magic of the storytelling process.
  3. While traditional advice suggests detailed structures and outlines, some writers prefer a more flexible approach, allowing them to uncover new aspects of the story as they go.

On writing audio - Action sequences

Development Hell • 394 implied HN points • 21 Mar 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing
  1. Writing for audio engages the listener actively, sparking imagination and partnership, similar to a novelist-reader relationship.
  2. In audio, the audience is called to conjure visuals in their mind's eye based on the sound cues provided, making it a participative experience.
  3. Subscribing to Development Hell offers a 7-day free trial to access full post archives, encouraging readers to continue exploring audio storytelling insights.

My new ebook is out!

The War Room • 216 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The ebook offers a simple system for writing non-fiction books.
  2. It's priced at $0.99 and targets individuals struggling to write.
  3. The author encourages readers to pen their own books and share their experience.

My First McSweeney’s Submission

Shades of Greaves • 393 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The author reflects on their five-year writing journey, from initial rejections to significant career milestones, showing that progress in writing takes time and perseverance.
  2. They compare their first and most recent submissions to McSweeney's, highlighting improvements in storytelling and satire techniques over the years.
  3. Through self-critique and analysis, the author demonstrates the importance of continuously learning and evolving as a writer, emphasizing that growth and skill development in writing occur over years and decades.

This Text Doesn't Exist

The Algorithmic Bridge • 233 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Collaborative writing can bring fresh ideas and perspectives, allowing multiple voices to create a richer story. It's like a group effort where everyone contributes their unique touch.
  2. Using AI in writing can be seen as a helpful tool rather than a threat. AI can assist in overcoming writer’s block and filling gaps in thought processes, making writing more fluid.
  3. All writing is somewhat collaborative since writers are influenced by past works and the ideas of others. No one writes in a vacuum; we all build on what has come before.

Texts as Toys

Breaking Smart • 170 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Writing
  1. Writing is like making toys, and reading is like playing with those toys. In the age of AI, we should embrace this playful approach to both activities.
  2. People often miss the fun aspect of using AI because they feel threatened by it or don't know how to interact with it effectively. Approaching AI with a playful mindset can unlock its potential.
  3. We need to adjust our expectations when using AI. Just as toys don’t perfectly represent real objects, AI outputs can also be quirky and not always accurate. Understanding this helps us enjoy the experience more.

A Luminous, Brave, and Unputdownable Article about Blurbs

Counter Craft • 470 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Blurbs, or quotes of praise on book covers, are often seen as necessary but can be annoying to writers and readers alike. They take up a lot of time and often sound overly exaggerated.
  2. While blurbs can be helpful in promoting books, especially for authors who are just starting out, there's a growing conversation about their relevance. Some believe they may not be needed at all as readers can judge books on their own.
  3. To make blurbing better, suggestions include limiting the number of blurbs per book, avoiding requests for manuscripts that haven't sold yet, and stopping requests from already successful authors, letting newer voices shine instead.

Jobs and Opps at HuffPost UK, Full Fact, Business Insider, NFU, and Many, Many More 🥂

Journo Resources - The Opportunities • 277 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
💼 Business Writing
  1. A variety of journalism job opportunities are available in different locations with competitive salaries, such as in unscripted TV development, social content creation, and editorial roles.
  2. New Year's Resolutions may not always be practical or realistic for everyone, and setting smaller goals or guidelines can be just as beneficial in journalism work.
  3. Various organizations are offering training programs, mentorship opportunities, and cash prizes for journalists, writers, and content creators to support their career growth and development.

the feedback fallacy of writing on the internet

Both Are True • 152 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. There are three types of feedback: appreciation, coaching, and evaluation. Knowing the difference helps you understand how to use feedback effectively.
  2. Many people confuse appreciation for evaluation, especially when they lack clear evaluations of their work. This can lead to unnecessary anxiety about others' opinions.
  3. Creating a list of personal guidelines for evaluating work can help you focus on what matters and improve your writing process.

Good code is like a love letter to the next developer who will maintain it.

Elevate • 258 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Writing
  1. Good code is a form of communication and should be like a love letter to the next developer maintaining it, personal, sincere, and considerate.
  2. Design patterns and principles in code serve as a shared vocabulary for developers to create scalable, maintainable, and efficient solutions.
  3. Writing good code involves adhering to established best practices like consistent formatting, error handling, testing, and empathy towards other developers.

Permission to burn.

Neckar’s Notes • 144 implied HN points • 14 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Emotions are not bad; they are messengers that tell us something is going on inside us. It's okay to feel and express them.
  2. When we resist our feelings, it can cause more pain than the emotions themselves. Learning to sit with them can help us heal.
  3. Being in a quiet place can bring up our internal struggles. Sometimes, it's confronting, but it can also lead to important self-discovery.

A New Era for Linkposts

By Reason Alone • 67 implied HN points • 06 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Some people write blogs mainly for their own learning, without worrying if others read them. This helps them understand and keep track of what they learn.
  2. Link roundups can be a great way to share interesting finds with others, even if they start as personal notes. Many enjoy and engage with these kinds of posts.
  3. Collaborating with established platforms like EconLog can help broaden the audience for blog content. It's good to share work that is relevant to their readers.

How much I've made with Modeling Mindsets

Mindful Modeler • 379 implied HN points • 22 Aug 23
💼 Business Writing
  1. The author shared the earnings from their book 'Modeling Mindsets,' revealing they earned $14,155 in total.
  2. The book received positive feedback with 73 reviews, 40 on Amazon and 33 on Leanpub.
  3. Despite not getting rich, the author found financial stability through writing and digital assets, hinting at the potential for future income from the book.

what I learned this year about love and work

bookbear express • 588 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Writing brings joy and a sense of fulfillment, and it's important to keep exploring what works best for you in this creative space.
  2. Building connections and helping others find love enriches life and can create a strong sense of community.
  3. Navigating conflicts in relationships gets easier with practice, and focusing on reducing tension can lead to more peaceful interactions.

Rolling Up Characters (2015)

Development Hell • 375 implied HN points • 04 Mar 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The post 'Rolling Up Characters (2015)' from the archives holds up pretty well and became a teaching tool for the BBC Writers Room.
  2. The content, though from 2015, has aged well, with just a few dated references.
  3. The writer has given a glimpse of their work from the past to showcase the style of 'Development Hell'.

Not The Future

Fragmentary • 373 implied HN points • 17 Feb 23
🕹 Technology Writing
  1. AI will disrupt our lives, but its impact is yet to be fully understood.
  2. Using AI writing assistants can help with speed and efficiency but may lack the uniqueness of human creativity.
  3. The real threat is corporate greed, not AI technology.