Welcome to the Den! 🐻
Your guide to what to expect in this space and how to settle in.
Hello to everyone joining from Twitter!
First, thank you for following me here.
I think we can all agree that Twitter has become a complete fiery tip since Mango Mussolini’s re-election last week, and I understand why so many are leaving. While I’ll keep my presence there, all my long-form posts are now moving here to Substack, where we can actually discuss ideas without dodging the latest outrage-fuelled chaos (and also not give Space Karen any money either).
How Substack Is (Thankfully) Different from Twitter
If Twitter was the bustling pub where I could rant, joke, and dive into long-form commentary (and you know I wasn’t limited to 280 characters), Substack is the quieter back room - no noise, just the full Bear experience, direct to your inbox, with a little extra room to go deeper. Here, there’s no algorithm nudging us in strange directions, and fewer distractions pulling us away from the heart of a discussion.
So, if you’re here for thoughtful critiques, sharp satire, and the occasional growl at the powers that be, welcome to the Den.
What to Expect from the Den
In-Depth Pieces, Familiar Voice – You’ll still get the same style you’re used to: honest, unfiltered, and with a bit of wit. But now we get to dig into the absurdities of power, politics, and media manipulation without the character constraints. There’s more room here to unpack things properly and challenge the narratives we’re fed, and I’m looking forward to it.
A Steady Flow, No Set Schedule – I’ll be posting regularly, though it’s hard to commit to a strict schedule with the political landscape as it is. But you’ll hear from me often, whether it’s a deep dive, a quick take, or a reflective rant. Just check your inbox when the Den sends up a smoke signal.
Audience Involvement – Unlike Twitter, where discussions could get buried in noise, Substack allows us to have genuine, focused conversations in the comments. Think of it as a roundtable where you’re encouraged to bring your thoughts, questions, or even a bit of cheek. I read every comment (even the ones I probably shouldn’t), so don’t be shy about joining in.
Guest Contributors Welcome! – Now, here’s where things get exciting. I’d love to bring a few fresh voices into the Den, and I’m genuinely open to contributions. If you have a piece you’d like to write - maybe an insightful take, a satirical riff on the absurd, or an essay on something close to your heart - email me at iratusursusmajor@gmail.com. You don’t need a polished pitch; just send over your idea, a rough outline, or even a draft, and we’ll work together to make it shine.
Some Tips for Guest Writers:
Find Your Voice – Don’t worry if it doesn’t match mine; variety is the is heartily welcomed. Whether you’re thoughtful, sardonic, or even slightly outraged, bring your own flavour.
Be Bold, but Thoughtful – Satire and critique are welcome, but make sure there’s substance to back it up. If it’s funny and thought-provoking, even better.
Keep It Real – The Den is for people tired of spin, so honesty is key. If you’re passionate about an issue or topic, this is the place to say it like it is.
How to Get Involved
Comment and Engage – Substack’s comments are where real discussions happen. I’m excited to hear your thoughts - whether you agree, disagree, or just want to share your own perspective.
Get the Substack App for Easier Access – To stay connected without checking your email, try the Substack app. It’s a clean, ad-free way to read posts, join discussions, and keep up with new content without the usual digital clutter. It’s available on both iOS and Android, and it makes checking in with the Den quick and seamless.
Share the Den with Friends – If you’ve enjoyed the content, please feel free to share posts with anyone who might appreciate them. The more, the merrier!
Suggest Topics – Got something you’d like me to dig into? Let me know in the comments or drop me a message or email. I love knowing what’s on your mind, and I’m always open to a fresh challenge.
Just Say Hello – If you’re new, don’t hesitate to introduce yourself! It’s always a pleasure to meet readers who’ve taken the leap from Twitter to Substack.
The Future of the Den
I’ve got plenty of ideas, but I’m also keen to see where the Den might go with a few more contributors. If you’ve ever thought about writing on politics, media, social issues, or anything with a satirical edge, this might be your sign. Don’t worry if you’re not sure about your voice yet; the Den is a welcoming space for anyone who has something to say and isn’t afraid of a little irreverence.
So, welcome once again to Substack!
This is our corner to dig deeper, question the absurd, and build a community that doesn’t just passively scroll but actually engages. I’m looking forward to hearing from all of you - and perhaps even reading some of your work soon!
Best,
🐻
Might try and put something together. Basically I’m a very left wing socialist, ready to listen, discuss, be wrong, though I know what I believe in, which is fair play, tolerance and kindness. I hate bullies, dictators and bigots. I'm also, now, old. 81 to be exact and bloody furious, not about being old, which is no different than to have red hair, blue eyes or a genetic predisposition to have smelly wee when I eat asparagus. I'm cross about assumptions that the elderly are somehow mentally, morally different, are all a bit thick or even worse, cute. Or all vote Tory. Or are somehow not the same person they always were, with merely maybe a duff back, or like me, a former English teacher and still a writer, prone to hitting the wrong key and making the odd typo.
Here endeth the rant. For now.
Thank-you Bear I am one of those who has had to leave twitter to preserve my mental health look forward to reading your posts xxx