The hottest Writing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

Solstice Journeys

Seven Senses • 319 implied HN points • 17 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. The author shares creative explorations for the senses every full moon through their publication, _Seven Senses_. It's a way for them to connect with a community and dive deeply into various topics.
  2. The publication is ad-free and offers a reader-supported model similar to public radio, where readers can choose to support the author financially.
  3. Paid subscribers will receive exclusive benefits, like seasonal travel guides, discounts on collectibles, and occasional creative gifts in the mail.

Defund the em dash police

Situation Normal • 104 implied HN points • 13 Jul 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Some people, called the em dash police, try to identify writing made by AI just by spotting certain punctuation marks, like the em dash. This can be really annoying.
  2. The em dash is a versatile punctuation mark that can replace commas or parentheses and is often misunderstood by those who don't read much. Some people might not even recognize it.
  3. There's a bigger issue of reading comprehension in society, with many people struggling to understand complex texts. It might be more helpful to focus on improving education than policing writing styles.

The Work of Dead Stories

Oliver Bateman Does the Work • 157 implied HN points • 06 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing
  1. The author is aiming to increase paid subscriptions for their publication to ensure its longevity.
  2. The author faces challenges in producing fresh content after years of writing and needs to adapt to keep readers engaged.
  3. Despite past successes, the author is uncertain about the future of their creative career and feels a sense of pressure to continue producing meaningful work.

An Unusual Bonus Friday Post

Story Club with George Saunders • 253 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Keeping politics out of discussions is important, but sometimes it's necessary to address serious issues affecting governance and society.
  2. It's essential to remember the values of kindness and support for the less fortunate, especially during challenging times.
  3. Staying engaged and critical while maintaining a sense of humor can help us deal with difficult situations and keep hope alive for a better future.
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Why It's Smart to Write on Medium in 2023

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 419 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
💼 Business Writing
  1. Writing on Medium can help you get exposure and build an audience, even if the pay isn't great. It's a good place to test your writing and try different topics.
  2. You get paid based on how much time readers spend on your stories, which means engagement is key for earnings. Even if the money is small, you can get paid quickly.
  3. Medium offers you creative freedom and flexibility to write on your own schedule. You can connect with others and even grow your reputation as a writer.

On Great Writing

The Pedestrian • 317 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Great works of any age are exceptions, not the norm, and serve as a contrast to the lesser works of the time.
  2. Bad works typically outnumber great works, but the existence of lesser works highlights the greatness of the exceptional ones.
  3. The proliferation of superfluous writing can help us appreciate truly great contemporary works when they emerge.

Long Questions/Short Answers

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 243 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Asking the right questions can change how you see the world. Questions can guide our thoughts and experiences more than the answers themselves.
  2. When you focus on a big question in your life, it can shape your goals and actions. This question becomes your mission, driving you toward new discoveries.
  3. Curiosity is key to learning and growth. The questions we ask help us filter out irrelevant information and find what matters to us.

why it's impossible to finish anything, especially the good things

Both Are True • 245 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Distractions often keep us from finishing our ideas. When we start something, everyday things like parenting or chores can pull us away.
  2. The closer we get to completing a project, the more we might doubt its worth. It's common to think an idea isn't good enough as we work on it.
  3. Acknowledging our fears about sharing finished work is tough, but creating and putting it out there is essential. We have to be brave and share our creations, no matter the fear.

Seeing the Dolphins

Shades of Greaves • 157 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing
  1. Challenges in life, even if seemingly small, can carry lessons of perseverance and competition.
  2. Improvement in skills often requires revisiting challenging tasks with new knowledge and experience.
  3. Developing intuition in a craft involves practice, learning from others, and examining the fundamental elements of the skill.

"Unearthed 2008 blog reveals Dobrenko's early genius"

Both Are True • 86 implied HN points • 05 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Sometimes early work can hint at someone's future talent, like how child prodigies show their skills early on. It's interesting to look back at our own early creations to see if there's something special there.
  2. An unfinished blog post from the past can still hold value and be rediscovered later, surprising the writer with its potential. It's a reminder that even old, unpolished ideas can be viewed differently over time.
  3. Critics can sometimes give new insights into one's work, offering a fresh perspective that the creator might not see. This shows the importance of feedback and collaboration in the creative process.

Fifteen-reader books

The Leftovers • 179 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Facing challenges and performing for small audiences is a common struggle for content creators like writers and comedians.
  2. Experiencing setbacks, rejections, and small turnouts is part of the writing journey. Writers often face low audience numbers and sparse attention.
  3. Writing entails persistence and understanding that obscurity and tumbleweed moments are a normal part of the process, requiring dedication and resilience.

Read More Books

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 353 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Reading more books can really help you learn and grow. It improves your focus, memory, and how you connect ideas.
  2. Even busy people like Warren Buffett and Barack Obama make time to read daily. It's all about priorities and choices.
  3. By reading widely and thoughtfully, you can build a better understanding of the world and find connections between different ideas.

Turning another page

thegreataffair • 98 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The author is reflecting on a new creative phase in her life, feeling the need to break away from previous patterns and explore new ways of storytelling.
  2. She is grappling with the challenges of being a freelancer in the journalism industry, contemplating the balance between passion for writing and the practicalities of making a living.
  3. The author is prioritizing following her heart in her writing endeavors, embracing curiosity and a broader approach to storytelling, even if it means taking risks and stepping outside conventional journalism.

Eh 👁️

Situation Normal • 79 implied HN points • 10 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Writing
  1. Cognitive dissonance is when you hold two conflicting beliefs at the same time. For example, you might enjoy a nice brunch while also believing the world is in trouble.
  2. When it comes to AI, people often have strong opinions on both sides. Some see it as a threat to writers, while others see it as a helpful tool that can save time.
  3. Voice cloning technology like ElevenLabs can create audio versions of stories, which can be both exciting and strange. It's interesting how technology can improve or change the way we create and consume content.

More Hyphenation

Arjun Panickssery • 98 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Using hyphens for compound modifiers is important for readability.
  2. There is a trend to reduce hyphen usage in modern language.
  3. Hyphens can improve the speed at which text is understood.

Only the questions

Austin Kleon • 1039 implied HN points • 04 Mar 22
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. There's a cool online tool that shows you only the questions in a piece of writing. It's a fun way to focus on what really matters in the text.
  2. You can make music right in your browser using a tool called Roland50 Studio. It's a great way to have fun and be creative without needing special software.
  3. A new TV show called 'Somebody Somewhere' mixes comedy and heartwarming moments. It’s set in a unique location and deals with topics like grief in a relatable way.

Forté #18

SJF • 117 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing
  1. The author finds inspiration in reading Tolstoy's War & Peace and using a Hobonichi Techo notebook for daily journalling.
  2. Subscribed to The Idler magazine for a slow, good life perspective and enjoyed reading An Idler's Manual by Tom Hodgkinson.
  3. Explored the Voyager Golden Record images and learned about the robot 'There's Waldo' that finds Waldo in different countries.

Why do I write?

The Leftovers • 199 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The online literary community is evolving with readerships shrinking, posing a challenge for writers.
  2. It is essential to adapt to the changing landscape of writing and readership.
  3. Consider offering free trials to attract more readers and grow your audience.

Notes on Writing

Splitting Infinity • 138 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Writing every day is crucial to improve and establish a habit.
  2. Write about topics that genuinely interest you, not what you think others want to read.
  3. Simplify your writing by omitting unnecessary words and continuously refine your work.

On Writing at Work

Poczwardowski Notes • 118 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🚌 Education Writing
  1. Clear messages in business writing are crucial for good understanding and execution.
  2. The 'Writing at Work Framework' consists of three steps: Prep, Tell, and Remove.
  3. When writing, it's important to focus on simplicity, clarity, and removing unnecessary words to enhance communication.

Too Much Exposition...

Development Hell • 197 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Getting feedback on your writing can be both painful and useful, like having your homework marked but for work you care about.
  2. There's always room for improvement in writing, even if you've done your best, because sometimes it takes time for the flaws to become apparent.
  3. Dealing with notes on 'too much exposition' can be frustrating, but it's important to approach feedback with grace, openness, and equanimity.

Letter to Refaat Alareer

The Chris Hedges Report • 302 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Poetry can hold immense power, serving as a way to express emotions like hope, loss, and resistance against oppression. It connects people and keeps their stories alive.
  2. Many individuals, including students, journalists, and academics, are facing serious consequences, such as losing jobs or being silenced, for speaking out against injustice and violence.
  3. Remembering the stories of those who have suffered, like Palestinian poet Refaat Alareer, is crucial. Their voices continue to resonate and challenge the narrative imposed by oppressive forces.

Monday reading #1

well, actually • 196 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. The articles discussed in the post are about Amish witches, deep sea dives, and EMDR therapy.
  2. The writers in the articles shared personal experiences and sought deeper understanding in their work.
  3. The structure of a braided essay, blending personal narrative with research and reporting, is a common format in contemporary nonfiction writing.

Breach The Sky To Brave The Stars

From The Future • 196 implied HN points • 03 Aug 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing
  1. Our imagination holds the key to turning dreams into reality and shaping the future.
  2. Self-doubt can be a barrier, but listening to our inner voice and taking risks can lead to breakthroughs and progress.
  3. Innovative stories of the future require a mix of familiar elements and new ideas, pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling.

Read at Whim!

Austin Kleon • 979 implied HN points • 22 Mar 22
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Reading should be fun and spontaneous, like following your mood. Don't feel pressured to read what others think is good.
  2. Don't feel guilty about your reading choices. Enjoy what makes you happy, even if it's considered a 'guilty pleasure.'
  3. It's important to reflect on your reading habits and think about how to improve them for the future. Make your reading life more enjoyable.

Four Prose Poems

Dada Drummer Almanach • 105 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The cat feels at home in the night and can relax while reading without worrying about notes. It's a reminder to be comfortable and at ease with our thoughts.
  2. When we look in the mirror, our features may seem odd or untrustworthy, but it's just how we perceive ourselves. Our identity can be complex, and we shouldn’t be quick to judge.
  3. Writing can be unpredictable, much like a criminal's actions. Just because someone creates something once doesn’t mean they will do it again, highlighting the uniqueness of each creative act.

Coming to the U.K....

Story Club with George Saunders • 31 implied HN points • 13 Nov 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. George Saunders is excited to visit the U.K. in February for conversations about his book, 'Vigil', and to meet friends.
  2. Paula, his wife, is celebrating her birthday and promoting her novel, 'Starting From Here', with events coming up where she'll be speaking.
  3. Saunders is receiving a special award for his contributions to American literature at the National Book Awards, which brings back fond memories for him.

Are internet friends "real" friends?

The Novelleist • 1281 implied HN points • 27 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Internet friends can understand us in a unique way through our shared interests and writings.
  2. Finding 'our people' who truly know and connect with us can be challenging in real-life friendships.
  3. The online community can offer a space for meaningful connections that resonate deeply with us, potentially even more than some real-life friendships.

Scatterbrain: an autumn letter

The Leftovers • 179 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Starting a new passion or career path may not always lead to immediate success and can come with unexpected challenges.
  2. Having extra time available can be disorienting for individuals used to being constantly busy, raising questions about how time is best utilized.
  3. Public reactions to global events on social media can sometimes come across as performative, focusing on personal branding rather than genuine empathy.

Setting up my new blogging engine

Overthinking Everything • 314 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Using a typewriter is a unique and physical writing experience. It feels different from typing on a computer or handwriting because you have to hit the keys hard to get the letters to show up.
  2. Setting up a typewriter can be complex but satisfying. You may need to fix things like the ribbon, which teaches you about how mechanical objects work.
  3. Writing on a typewriter can help you focus better. Unlike computers, which distract you with notifications, a typewriter keeps you engaged in the writing process.

The Point Of Posting | #286

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 246 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Posting online can be really rewarding, as it helps people sharpen their ideas and connect with others. It’s like brainstorming with a big group, which can boost creativity.
  2. However, it can also attract negativity as audiences grow, which can make sharing ideas feel overwhelming. It’s important to stay focused on personal goals and connections amidst the noise.
  3. The online space for sharing ideas has changed a lot, making it harder for new voices to be heard. Despite this, continuing to write and share is still a valuable endeavor, even if the environment is different.

How We Read

Something to Consider • 39 implied HN points • 11 May 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Great writing is more than just being understood; it's about how effectively it communicates complex ideas. Sometimes, what we call 'great' can actually be harder to grasp.
  2. We read not just to learn, but to judge the author's skill. Good writing shows intelligence, while mistakes can hint at a lack of it.
  3. Bad writing can still be easily understood, but it doesn't impress us. Great writing often challenges us and makes us think differently.

Writing oneself onto a page

The Leftovers • 199 implied HN points • 09 Mar 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Writing about oneself can lead to unexpected reactions from readers.
  2. There's a conversation about the responsibilities of industry towards authors who write candidly.
  3. Personal writing can be a therapeutic practice, even if it's not meant for public consumption.

Scatterbrain: a letter from the end of times

The Leftovers • 119 implied HN points • 30 Dec 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The author reflects on their writing journey in 2023, touching on the challenges and aspirations of writing for a living but not yet making enough income from it.
  2. The author shares their top ten favorite pieces written in 2023, discussing various topics from AI in art to the struggles of indie writers in the literary world.
  3. Predictions for 2024 include memoirs and Substacks created by AI, highlighting the evolving nature of technology's impact on self-expression and literature.

Good News Update and Bonus Article

Resident Contrarian • 1237 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
💼 Business Writing
  1. Having a job that matches your skills and passion is important for long-term success.
  2. Good writing can set a company apart from competitors and attract talent.
  3. Clear communication through writing is crucial for explaining complex concepts and attracting investors.