Walker Ryan, a name well-known in the skateboarding world, has recently added “novelist” to his list of accomplishments. His self-published novel, Top of Mason, delves into the life of Henry, a skateboarder navigating the challenges of the sport. This venture is coupled with the release of his impressive video part, “ABD SFC,” for Old Friends, proving that his literary pursuits haven’t dulled his skateboarding skills. This is a unique feat, as it’s rare to see a novelist drop a pro part in the same year. This article explores Walker’s journey, his perspective on the critical analysis of skateboarding, and what Top of Mason brings to the cultural landscape of skateboarding.
Walker Ryan, a pro skateboarder, stands holding his book "Top of Mason."
Many have joked about the stereotype of skaters not being avid readers, but Walker’s book isn’t just for entertainment; it’s a deep dive into the skater’s mindset. Rather than dismissing those who don’t enjoy reading, we interviewed Walker to discuss the book and the pros and cons of critically examining skateboarding. An excerpt from Top of Mason is available for download for anyone curious about the book or looking for a preview.
The Unexpected Path to Writing
Why choose writing, a profession notoriously less lucrative than skateboarding?
Walker laughs, acknowledging that writing is far more time-consuming than skating. He explains he was not seeking stability; instead, he embraced the challenge.
Did writing ever make you want to quit skating?
He clarifies that writing was a morning activity, a creative outlet in his free time. He found that the process actually complemented his skating. When stuck on a trick, he could switch focus to his character, Henry, allowing him to return to skating with a fresh perspective. This illustrates how writing served as an escape from the pressures of skateboarding, and vice-versa.
Walker Ryan performs a skateboard trick, demonstrating his skills.
Skateboarding as an Escape and a Subject of Analysis
It’s interesting that skating is often an escape from problems, but your novel became an escape from skating.
Walker agrees, noting the common anger and aggression among skateboarders, including himself. He explains his interest in analyzing this, an impulse not deeply explored in Top of Mason. This self-analysis leads to the next topic: the critical analysis of skateboarding in academia.
What do you think skateboarding gains or loses from being critically analyzed in academia?
Walker admits he has never attended skate-centric academic conferences like Pushing Boarders and has not connected skateboarding with his academic experience. He believes that these discussions give a platform to those on the fringes of the community who aren’t associated with brands or media companies. These forums allow for reevaluation and progress in skateboarding. However, Walker also feels that overanalyzing skateboarding can detract from its inherent charm as a pastime and entertainment. He finds it “kind of silly” but acknowledges the importance of both the seriousness and lightheartedness of skateboarding.
Walker Ryan is interviewed in a skate park environment.
The Evolving Culture of Skateboarding
Do you see skaters who care about academia becoming more common?
Walker observes that more up-and-coming skaters are attending college, hoping this trend continues. He doesn’t believe that all skaters need to go to college but wishes to normalize the idea of it being a viable option. He highlights how many professional skaters have degrees, and that their education isn’t always part of their branding, which further normalizes combining education and skating.
How does Top of Mason add to skateboarding culture compared to other films like Mid 90s or Lords of Dogtown?
Walker believes most movies try too hard to explain skateboarding, a practice he finds irritating. He aims for Top of Mason to offer an authentic glimpse into the psyche of a skater navigating the social media age, on the fringes of professional skateboarding. He focuses on providing insight rather than over-explaining the sport.
The Challenges of Writing
What were the biggest challenges in writing Top of Mason?
Walker says one of the biggest challenges was accurately portraying a character experiencing homelessness and addiction. He sought feedback from friends who had lived similar experiences to ensure the portrayal was respectful and authentic. He also struggled with accepting constructive criticism, which forced him to rewrite sections, emphasizing the difficult nature of creative writing.
The cover of Walker Ryan's book "Top of Mason."
Support System and Collaborators
Was everyone supportive of the project from the start?
Walker admits he kept the project a secret for a long time, not wanting to be seen as “that guy working on a novel.” His wife, family, and friend Nic Henry were instrumental in helping him shape the novel. He also got editing help from Nic Dobija-Nootens and feedback from Mark Suciu, who also enjoys analyzing literature and skateboarding.
Who would win in a spelling bee, you or Mark Suciu?
Walker is confident that Suciu would win. He shares a story about losing a spelling bee in 5th grade, humorously highlighting his lack of confidence in this area.
Walker Ryan performs a skateboard trick, demonstrating balance.
Imagining Skaters of the Past
Which writer do you wish had skateboarded?
Walker believes Hemingway, given his obsession with bull-fighting, could have been a good skater or a dedicated fan. This creative thought connects literary figures with the world of skateboarding.
What do you hope to achieve from publishing this book?
Walker shares a story about a friend, Patrik, who dislikes fiction, being engrossed by the novel. This experience, where fiction becomes a medium for truth, is what he hopes to achieve for other readers. He wants the book to be fun, easy to get into, and true to skateboarding, not aiming for literary awards but for relatability.
Walker Ryan performs a skateboard trick.
The Final Word
What is the biggest word you know?
Walker humorously recalls his wife using “duplicative” during a work call, choosing that as his biggest word.
Has your wife found you more attractive now that you’re a published author and a pro skater?
Walker jokes that he hasn’t become more attractive; if anything, he may be less so, given the time he invested in the project.
Do you think that you’re better than me now because you wrote a novel?
Walker laughs and says, “No, certainly not.”
Walker’s journey from pro skater to novelist is inspiring. Top of Mason is more than just a book; it’s a journey into the mind of a skateboarder, offering a fresh perspective on a culture often misunderstood. It is a testament to the power of creative expression and critical thinking within skateboarding.
