“Millennials are digital natives, having grown up in a technologically advanced world, but not as much as younger generations,” he explains.

“This puts millennials in a better position than any other generation to compare pre-and post-technology inflow. The narration is dominated by the ideas of uncertainty and moral dualism all the way through.”

What inspired him?

Speaking about the inspiration for the book, Ryan explained how “the hellish months of July, August, and September on the island served” as the main source.

“Young adults have more possibilities to indulge in hedonistic behaviour during the summer, when nightlife and festivities are at their peak.”

“One can easily go on a seasonal roller coaster of ups and downs, only for September to come to an end and one ends up asking, what remains of the weeks gone in a haze of drink, dancing, partying, fast driving, and escapades.”

“Beyond a collection of leisurely narratives, the story has depth. A likable narrator who is confident in himself but uncertain at various points in the story. Although he is amenable to various kinds of partnerships and shenanigans, he yearns for a committed monogamous union.”

“Despite his love of vehicles and speed, he is environmentally conscious. References to the modern dilemma and point of view of unstable relationships, internet dating and casual hookups, novel kinds of intimacy, the in-between, and dualism may be seen throughout the story,” he explains.

What was the writing process like?

Ryan explained how he didn’t have a definitive writing schedule, but rather he would write whenever the inspiration hit.

“Without any constraints or deadlines, I perceive my writing process as a hobby inside a hobby within a hobby. This allows me the flexibility to work whenever I choose,” he said. 

He also added that he doesn’t have a preference between writing and painting, but rather, the disciplines satisfy different needs at different times.

“The words come naturally to me; they just flow. I’m aware that, like with my paintings, I need to contain my creativity built-up rather than let it out randomly. I can now precisely identify where I am in the process, allowing me to tap into and supply direct references and intrusions in order to steer the brewing process in the desired direction.”

And what proved to be challenging? 

“Relevance to time and space is my primary focus with all of my artwork. My artistic endeavors must represent the location and time of their creation as well as the pulse of the times,” he said.

He continued to say that he frequently declares that he will resign if he ever notices himself becoming obsolete.

“I make art because I’m not happy. One becomes numb, apathetic, and disinterested when they are comfortable.”

“Life has meaning through art, and it provides a forum for making sense of life’s absurdities. I rehash and duplicate existing works in my writing instead of coming up with new ideas.”

“The tragic, funny, bizarre, and inspiring nature of reality itself is a great source of inspiration. In order to make the audience feel alive and separated from their own world, it is the writer’s and the film director’s job is to omit the uninteresting aspects of life and provide them with thrill after thrill.”

“The book’s interconnected layers are intended to help the reader determine whether the action is actually taking place, is only partially real and entirely imagined, or is simply the result of late-night fantasies about having the best summer ever.”

Ryan is already working on his second publication – so stay tuned for more to come.

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