The hottest Writing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics

The Third Year's A Charm

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 96 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. The writer reflects on how quickly three years can pass, noting it's been a busy time filled with many words and thoughts shared on various topics.
  2. There’s a strong message about embracing life’s complexities, including tackling serious issues like politics while also celebrating simple joys, like pets and nature.
  3. The importance of supporting independent writing is emphasized, showing appreciation for subscribers and encouraging new ones to join in.

On the futility of writing

The Leftovers • 119 implied HN points • 24 Jul 22
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Question the purpose of writing: Despite acknowledging its futility, the act of writing persists, raising the eternal question of why we engage in a seemingly pointless endeavor.
  2. The infinite possibilities of words: Reflecting on Borges' 'The Library of Babel,' the idea of an ever-expanding, chaotic library suggests a universe where the potential for new creations is boundless, even amidst the saturation of existing literature.
  3. Social media and the democratization of writing: The digital age demands that we all become writers, sharing our thoughts with a global audience through online platforms, blurring the lines between creation, self-promotion, and personal expression.

"Is the Sky Ever Green?"

Story Club with George Saunders • 56 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Writing well isn’t just about following rules; it often involves a natural talent that can’t be forced. Sometimes inspiration comes unexpectedly, like catching a fish out of nowhere.
  2. Specificity in writing helps create a vivid picture, but it can also be useful to think about how your reader reacts to each line as they read. This helps you create a more engaging experience.
  3. Colors in prose can surprise readers and enhance the story. Using unique colors can make readers pause and think, which draws them deeper into the imaginary world.

Jobs and Opps at openDemocracy, BBC Science Focus, FITV, PinkNews, and Many, Many More 🎄

Journo Resources - The Opportunities • 39 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
💼 Business Writing
  1. The post shares job opportunities at various organizations including openDemocracy, BBC Science Focus, and more.
  2. There was a festive Christmas party held for the Journo Resources team to celebrate and connect in person.
  3. The newsletter is a thank you to the team for their hard work and vision for a better media landscape.

Podcast Episode + Other Stuff

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 4 implied HN points • 10 Dec 25
🎙 Podcasts Writing
  1. Posting is paused for about two weeks because of master’s exams and family commitments for a birthday.
  2. A previous piece was translated and expanded for Revista Supernova so Spanish readers can read a version with new material.
  3. A Millennial Dream podcast episode features a conversation about starting on Substack, Argentina’s economic history and politics, digital nomads, and urban topics like walkability and transit.
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This American Ex-Wife syllabus

Men Yell at Me • 174 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The author found her passion for reading and writing through a journey of rejection and self-discovery, eventually earning an MFA in creative writing.
  2. The author's MFA experience involved a lot of reading and writing, but she struggled to tell the truth in her writing, overcoming fear over time.
  3. The author shares a list of books that inspired her while writing her own book, focused on narratives of women breaking norms and finding new paths.

What writing in a second language has taught me (about writing in general)

The Leftovers • 59 implied HN points • 31 Jan 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The author started writing seriously at seventeen, focusing on projects like short stories and essays, rather than just random writing. Eventually shifted to writing mainly in English, leaving their mother tongue behind.
  2. Writing in a second language led the author to discover five things that changed their perspective on writing as a whole, showing a deeper connection beyond just a desire for readers.
  3. Through writing in a second language, the author experienced defamiliarization and realized the impact it had on their craft, highlighting the importance of exploring different writing styles and languages in personal development.

Escape Shouldlandia | #255

Boundless by Paul Millerd • 182 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Writing
  1. Many people get stuck in a place called Shouldlandia, where they talk about what they should do but don't actually do it.
  2. It's important to pay attention to what you actually do rather than what you think you should be doing.
  3. To escape Shouldlandia, focus on taking bold actions, experimenting, and testing your 'shoulds' in reality.

Thoughts on Writing Books and Fanfics

Fireside Chat Logs • 39 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Consider the potential of fanfics being turned into successful franchises and explore self-publishing online to reach wider audiences.
  2. Reflect on the popularity of certain themes in fanfics, like romantic dramas, and adapt storytelling to align with market trends.
  3. Revisiting old stories, adapting them to avoid copyright issues, and self-publishing online could lead to establishing a professional book series.

My babies, I have an announcement to make. I’m ready to be funny.

Sex and the State • 19 implied HN points • 08 Aug 25
😂 Humor Writing
  1. The author wants to combine humor with serious topics in their writing. They believe finding humor in difficult subjects can make them easier to handle.
  2. A trip to Tokyo inspired the author to enjoy life more and find pleasure in everyday experiences, even if it requires effort or resources.
  3. The author acknowledges a tendency to take themselves too seriously and wants to relax that mindset, focusing on the fun side of life.

The Struggle for Survival, Information, and Immortality

Ulysses • 59 implied HN points • 13 Mar 23
🔬 Science Writing
  1. Living beings navigate the world by ingesting information to survive and evolve, as genes constantly adapt and species evolve through the exchange of genetic material.
  2. Human survival relies heavily on memetic information stored in our minds, with language playing a crucial role in passing on knowledge and shaping societies.
  3. Writing is a powerful tool for achieving a form of immortality by transferring ideas and knowledge across generations, transcending biological limitations.

If You're A Writer, You Can Also Be Successful On YouTube

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 119 implied HN points • 24 Nov 22
🚌 Education Writing
  1. Good writing skills are important for YouTube success. Writing video scripts helps organize your thoughts and keeps viewers engaged.
  2. A well-structured video should have a clear introduction, informative middle, and a concise conclusion. This makes it easier for audiences to follow along.
  3. The more viewers watch your videos, the better they will perform on YouTube. A higher watch time signals to the algorithm that your content is interesting.

Writing With Your Second Brain

Adjacent Possible • 174 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Writing
  1. Deep dive conversations about craft in writing and research are now more accessible through platforms like podcasts and YouTube.
  2. Software tools like NotebookLM and techniques shared by authors like Tiago Forte can revolutionize the way we organize research material and notes.
  3. Integration of tools like ReadWise's 'Export to Docs' feature can enhance the ability to work with research material and create a 'second brain' for storing important ideas.

When to, when not to use AI for writing

10x your mind • 59 implied HN points • 02 Feb 23
🕹 Technology Writing
  1. AI can be used for generating content efficiently, but it's crucial to remember that for some, writing is a personal and thoughtful process that can't be outsourced to technology.
  2. AI tools like GPT-3 can help spark creative ideas or simplify complex concepts, making them valuable for various tasks beyond just writing.
  3. When writing aims to express personal thoughts, connect with others, or unwind, relying on the human mind rather than AI can bring a unique and authentic touch to the content.

One Month of Building the Used Bookstore of the Future + Things I loved in July

Castles in the Sky • 19 implied HN points • 08 Aug 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Building an AI tool for used booksellers is more complicated than expected, involving many tasks beyond just programming and filming. It’s been a busy and fun month working on this project.
  2. To improve my reading habits, I've decided to read one classic book and one random book at a time. This balance helps me learn while still exploring my interests.
  3. I’ve started creating short-form videos to share on various platforms. It’s a fun way to engage, even though I know it might take time to find the right audience.

On writing

Chronicles and Meditations • 39 implied HN points • 09 Nov 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Writing is difficult because thoughts are complex and translating them into words accurately is challenging.
  2. Technical writing is straightforward as it focuses on clarity using simple words, while creative writing like articulating feelings and sharing lessons requires careful choice of words.
  3. Writing helps clarify thoughts, contribute to communities, and hold oneself accountable, leading to a balance between quality and quantity over time.

Getting Started

backstory • 339 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing
  1. Teachers can have a powerful impact, both positive and negative.
  2. Moments of self-discovery and realization can lead to significant life changes.
  3. Sometimes, unexpected encounters and experiences can shape our path and lead to new opportunities.

The End

Story Club with George Saunders • 52 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The story 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich' has a powerful ending that raises many thoughts and feelings. It's a perfect example of how storytelling can deeply impact us.
  2. As you read stories, pay attention to what captures your interest or confuses you. These moments can lead to deeper understanding and help improve your own writing.
  3. Discussing stories in a group can enhance your experience. Sharing questions and thoughts can lead to exciting discoveries and insights into the text.

On the Spectator Urge

Autoscriptorium • 59 implied HN points • 07 Feb 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The concept of mimetic desire in reading involves imitating the desire itself, not just external representations.
  2. In literature, the mimetic interpretive lens involves subjecting characters to social criticism and evaluating them based on our own experiences.
  3. The mimetic urge in reading can be a way of seeking out desire, constantly evaluating and comparing, possibly as a protective mechanism in the current media-saturated world.

Typewriter interview with Elisa Gabbert

Austin Kleon • 1 HN point • 27 Aug 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Reading can be more enjoyable if you have different books around you. If a book isn't capturing your attention, it's okay to set it down and choose something else.
  2. Elisa Gabbert enjoys singing and finds karaoke a fun way to express herself. She feels connected to music and has a lot of favorite songs that always lift her mood.
  3. Elisa suggests that instead of seeing reading and writing as chores, we should turn our interests into enjoyable activities. She believes in following fleeting obsessions as they can enrich your knowledge and creativity.

The Origin of an Assassin

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 22 implied HN points • 21 Jul 25
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Writing a novel can feel magical when ideas flow easily, but it can also be really challenging. It’s important to keep writing even when things get tough because that helps you find clarity.
  2. Understanding a character's motivation is crucial in storytelling. Characters need realistic reasons for their actions, but sometimes those reasons can be confusing, just like in real life.
  3. Modern technology, like drones, brings new challenges for society and storytelling. The fear of anonymously caused violence is a theme worth exploring in fiction.

Post-MacDowell Blues

The Fairest Writer • 79 implied HN points • 17 May 23
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Going to MacDowell was a big deal and helped kick-start the writing process. The quiet environment allowed for focused work, especially since the author was isolated due to COVID restrictions.
  2. A snowstorm disrupted work but ended up being a bonding experience with other artists. The community aspect became more important, leading to fun events and valuable discussions.
  3. The author not only made progress on their book but also learned a lot from other artists. Conversations and interactions inspired new ideas and reflections on their creative journey.

Let's Celebrate National Author's Day Together!

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 119 implied HN points • 01 Nov 22
📚 Literature Writing
  1. November 1 is National Author's Day, a special time to celebrate all writers, whether they're published or not. If you've written something original, you're an author too!
  2. It's National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), where writers aim to create 50,000 words in 30 days. It's a great chance to start that story you've been thinking about!
  3. No need to worry about making it perfect; just get your ideas down on the page. The goal is to write freely and enjoy the process without fear of judgment.

This American Ex Wife: The Podcast

Men Yell at Me • 259 implied HN points • 19 Jul 23
🎙 Podcasts Writing
  1. The author shares personal stories about divorce and relationships through essays and a forthcoming book.
  2. The author is launching a podcast to create a space for others to share their divorce stories.
  3. The podcast is self-produced to maintain creative control and support local journalists.

I am a writer

People Who Like Things • 39 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Writing
  1. Being a writer doesn't always have a clear answer to 'what do you write?'
  2. As a writer, it's important to give yourself space and time for creativity.
  3. To be a writer, show up for your ideas, put in the time, and create without needing validation.

A running doc with my little thoughts

Both Are True • 49 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Writing for an audience can improve your ideas and make them more engaging. It helps you see your thoughts in a different light.
  2. Keeping a log of your thoughts can be a great way to capture ideas that may turn into bigger projects later on.
  3. Sharing your ideas in a way that others can interact with can lead to interesting discussions and feedback.

Are you helping?

Austin Kleon • 239 implied HN points • 28 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Artists should focus on helping others in their work, even if it's not always cheerful. It's about the impact you make.
  2. Reading novels in relaxing settings, like the bathtub, can enhance your reading experience and enjoyment.
  3. Listening deeply to music can help you connect more with the artist. It’s a great way to appreciate something you love even more.

What Matt Levine and Taylor Swift Have in Common

Dunnstack • 39 implied HN points • 28 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Taylor Swift and Matt Levine are both superstars in their respective fields, known for their prolific work and influence.
  2. Analogies play a significant role in storytelling and leadership, illuminating ideas and engaging the audience.
  3. Matt Levine's insightful and witty writing on finance and business is likened to Taylor Swift's impact on music, showcasing different forms of creativity.

Camus, Perfectionism, and Absurd Creation—On Joseph Grand in The Plague

Vremya • 139 implied HN points • 11 Sep 22
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Joseph Grand struggles with perfectionism, holding him back from completing his writing. He gets stuck on the perfect first sentence and can't move past it.
  2. Life is considered absurd, with no inherent meaning, and we get to create our own purpose. This idea is central to Camus's philosophy.
  3. Art and creation are ways to rebel against life's absurdity. Even small efforts in writing can be seen as part of the larger struggle of existence.

How to Protect Yourself from the Fiend's Fiery Brain

Orbis Tertius • 158 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
📚 Literature Writing
  1. Protect yourself from negative influences by deploying unconventional techniques like staring at the sun or moon for extended periods.
  2. The author discusses the difficulty of discerning between good and bad in the alchemical process, highlighting the complexity of identifying what is truly beneficial.
  3. Reflections on the human experience and the challenge of distinguishing between the positive and negative aspects of life, as demonstrated through a unique perspective.

The Story of the Mathematics of Machine Learning Book

The Palindrome • 5 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
🚌 Education Writing
  1. Writing online about math and machine learning turned a hobby into a 700-page book, showing that sharing knowledge can lead to unexpected successes.
  2. Creating clear, engaging content on social media helped grow an audience rapidly, proving that quality work can attract attention even in crowded spaces.
  3. Finding a publisher transformed a challenging project into a successful book release, underlining the importance of collaboration and support from the community.

due to sick, today's batwrite is cancelled

Both Are True • 24 implied HN points • 21 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Writing
  1. Today's BATWRITE event is canceled because the organizer is sick. It's important to take care of health.
  2. You can register for the next two BATWRITE events happening on Wednesday and Thursday. This way, you'll get reminders and a link to join.
  3. By registering, it’s a good deal for everyone because it helps you remember and connects you to upcoming events.

December Is The Best Month to Write on Medium.com and Boost Your Stats

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 99 implied HN points • 10 Dec 22
📚 Literature Writing
  1. December is a great time to write on Medium because more readers are inside and online. This can help your articles get more views.
  2. Many publication editors take breaks during the holidays, so it's smart to plan and submit your stories ahead of time. This way, you can still get featured even when they are away.
  3. Using specific tags, like the year-end retrospective tag, can increase your chances of being highlighted by Medium's editors. It’s a good way to connect with readers about your year's experiences.

Changing Directions at Midlife

The Reclamation Era • 79 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. It's okay to change your path in life, especially during big transitions like midlife. Making changes can bring peace and excitement.
  2. Taking care of your health is really important. Prioritizing well-being can lead to new opportunities and passions.
  3. Writing a book can be a fulfilling goal, and sharing the journey can inspire others. Embrace the ups and downs along the way.

You Can Earn More Money with Evergreen Content in 2023

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 99 implied HN points • 08 Dec 22
💼 Business Writing
  1. Evergreen content stays relevant over time, unlike seasonal content which loses interest quickly. Creating this type of content means people will always find value in it, which is great for growth.
  2. Writing evergreen articles can lead to more earnings because platforms like Medium will promote this content more. This means you could see more traffic and revenue in the long run.
  3. Focusing on your expertise and crafting in-depth stories can help you create evergreen content. Once it gets recognized, it can keep bringing in readers and income for a long time.

How To Create A Free Blog With Medium In 6 Easy Steps

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 99 implied HN points • 03 Dec 22
🚌 Education Writing
  1. To start a blog on Medium, first create a strong profile. Include your name, a short bio, and links to your other social media or newsletter.
  2. When you start writing, pay attention to formatting using Medium’s tools. Use titles, subtitles, and images to make your posts visually appealing.
  3. Finally, add relevant tags to your posts before publishing. This helps your articles get noticed and reach a wider audience.

Big announcement...

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 238 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
📚 Literature Writing
  1. The author has written a book that sheds light on silencing, shaming, and bullying for different views.
  2. The book includes stories of public harassment, interviews with well-known figures, and lessons on using one's voice freely.
  3. The author encourages principled individuals to resist authoritarianism and to find and free their own voices.