the critics at large podcast at the new yorker is a great way to think deeply about cultural phenomena including books if you’re looking for perspectives outside of the academy and low-effort.
similarly, rita felski’s work is so engaging and her book “hooked” is a fun fresh read— basically analyzing different kinds of emotional attachments to various pieces of media.
i get a copy of the new york review of books every so often and its a nice way to learn about authors and books.
more academic/theoretical route: n+ 1
Related Recs
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Club reticent: for ~ relevant ~ cultural critiques
The Review of Beauty by Jessica Defino: Such good essays on the beauty industry !!
Bridget Mornings: Cute little montly snippets into her life
New Bands for old heads: Self-explanatory!
Cafe Hysteria: More relevant social essays
Oct 1, 2024
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It’s rare to read sharply worded, negative reviews nowadays, and I get it. Writing (and publishing) negative criticism can feel like the most thankless, isolating work in journalism. Few writers are eager to subject themselves to torrents of internet backlash or risk access to artists’ camps, especially to further a form often said to be outmoded by the general populace. But, as many have persuasively argued, it is essential— and perhaps now more than ever, given its diminishing presence in media.It‘s been a relief lately to see younger voices like Constantly Hating (Substack), Antiart (Instagram), and Gabi Belle (Youtube) emerge in new outlets, offering sometimes clumsy but always entertaining takes. Nothing satisfies like a warranted pan backed by a well-argued thesis. It lends color and character to the author, raises stakes and standards for artists, and catalyzes necessary discourse. It also helps frustrated listeners feel seen (and see each other).
Mar 19, 2024
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“the isle is full of noises” by roro (of @/fuglibetty twitter fame). their substack is fantastic. what can i say i can’t resist an essay analyzing a reality show from a literary/sociological/dramaturgical perspective etc.
Apr 8, 2024
Top Recs from @mayaday
Best thing I did this year. Forces me to work with a limited library of records, CDs, and cassettes, which makes me learn new music outside of an algorithm. I have joined Ann Arbor’s wcbn and it’s a great third space and a community full of different ages and life experiences. So wholesome and a great way to unwind!!
Nov 26, 2024
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I have to take myself on a walk or I’ll get the zoomies late at night
I have to drink water even tho I’m like a cat and can go days without it…
I have to eat more than pasta and pastries or I’ll feel decrepid
I have to be stimulated or I’ll binge real housewives til my eyes hurt…
I’ll be anxious, feel negatively towards loved ones, and think of existential reasons I feel the way I do but for the most part these unmet necessities underly my agonizing condition
Jan 3, 2025
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that is, free writing 2-3 pages right when you wake up. i am spiritually, psychologically, creatively transformed by morning pages. you think it’ll just help you creatively but i feel much less in my head and more out in the world after dumping my thoughts out onto the page.
3d ago