The author reflects on feelings of longing and despair while dining in a Mexican restaurant in Rome, New York, evoking memories of the desert and a sense of exile. He grapples with themes of depression, societal decay, and the sea...
About:
A.M. Hickman is a writer and traveler exploring obscure places, sharing tales of hope and human warmth.
Website:
Specializations:
Interests:
Outgoing Links:
Subscribe to RSS:
The author reflects on the emotional turmoil of experiencing his mother's death from colon cancer while his wife is in the final stages of pregnancy. He describes the oppressive heat of a summer drought in the Adirondacks, paralle...
The post explores the changing archetype of the 'bum' in American society, contrasting the traditional, colorful characters of the past with the modern-day equivalents who are often mired in addiction or welfare dependency. The au...
The author recounts a series of surreal and often dangerous hitchhiking experiences across America, highlighting the bizarre characters and situations encountered along the way. Through vivid storytelling, he reflects on the chang...
The author reflects on the cultural changes in rural America, particularly in Upstate New York, contrasting the current state with a nostalgic view of the past. Through the lens of cigarette littering near a billionaire's estate, ...
The author reflects on the experience of being a soon-to-be father while grappling with the complexities of life in rural Upstate New York. He describes the beauty and nostalgia of the late summer landscape, intertwined with feeli...
5.7Culture is Friction
2026-03-12 • community friction human experience economics ai
AI's potential to reduce friction in economic and social interactions may lead to a crisis of community and human connection, necessitating a return to more traditional forms of engagement.
A.M. Hickman explores the burdens of online visibility and the longing for offline authenticity amidst the pressures of social media content creation.
5.7Meditation upon a Cannoli
2025-11-12 • reflection travel culture food italy
The author reflects on a visit to Cafe Florentine in Utica, New York, a beloved establishment known for its Italian pastries, particularly the pasticciotti and cannoli. The narrative captures the vibrant, chaotic atmosphere of the...
The article explores the romanticized notion of 'dropping out of society' and contrasts it with the harsh realities faced by those who attempt it. The author reflects on the allure of a simpler, nomadic lifestyle while acknowledgi...
The post examines the decline of winter community traditions in Upstate New York and the growing desire for warmer climates as social connections fade.
The post examines the psychological burden of potential risks in life choices, particularly regarding the decision to leave one's home state for perceived better opportunities.
A.M. Hickman reflects on the challenges and uncertainties of writing on Substack, expressing gratitude for his subscribers while grappling with the unpredictability of success on the platform. He critiques the prevalent 'Hook Meth...
The author reflects on the stark contrast between the decay of his village's downtown and the birth of his daughter, exploring themes of life, death, and the future. He discusses the dilapidated properties for sale in his village,...
The post explores the stark differences between rural America and affluent coastal cities, acknowledging the challenges of rural life while recognizing the allure of urban luxury.
The author reflects on his disillusionment with America, expressing a deep longing for a time when the country was more vibrant and alive. He describes his feelings of alienation and disappointment, and his desire to escape to for...
The author describes his experience of traveling through rural public transit buses in New York State, highlighting the challenges and unique experiences of using local rural county transit buses.
The text discusses the possibility of living a simple, low-cost life in rural America, specifically in Massena, New York, for $432 a month. The author describes the area's natural beauty, low housing costs, and job opportunities, ...
0Obituaryland
2025-04-15 • history revival tourism rural areas economic decline
The text describes a rural village in decline, with a dwindling population of elderly residents and abandoned buildings. The author reflects on the history and potential future of the area, discussing the impact of tourism and the...
The author recounts a morning when he went to buy bacon and tobacco from a local store in his village. He reflects on the similarities and differences between his village and New York City, and how his village is an example of 'wa...
The text is an open letter to a young man in Georgia, advising him on how to find his place in the world and embrace his manhood. The author shares his own experiences and urges the young man to pursue a life of adventure and purp...
The text discusses the loss of the old rough-and-tumble gumption of our forebears and the impact of modern comforts on the American society. It highlights the lack of grit and tolerance for risk and hardship in the current generat...
The text is an open letter to an Orthodox Christian, discussing the author's conversion from Eastern Orthodoxy to Catholicism and the need for unity among Christians. The author presents statistics on the number of adherents in va...
The text describes a journey to Eastern New Mexico, where the author meets elderly people who have lived through the rapid changes of the 20th century. The author learns about their lives, experiences, and perspectives on modern t...