Teju Cole

Date of Birth: June 27, 1975

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: [Leave Blank]

Biography

Teju Cole is an acclaimed Nigerian-American writer, photographer, and art historian. Born in the United States and raised in Nigeria, Cole is a multifaceted artist known for his novels, essays, and visual art. His works often explore themes of identity, migration, and the intersections of various cultures. Cole’s 2011 novel, “Open City,” received high praise for its introspective narrative and nuanced portrayal of urban life, earning him several literary awards. In addition to his literary success, Cole is a prolific photographer and has exhibited his visual work in various galleries. He also served as the photography critic for The New York Times Magazine from 2015 to 2019. Cole’s unique voice and keen observations have made him a significant figure in contemporary literature and art.

5 Interesting Facts about Teju Cole

1. Teju Cole’s birth name is Obayemi Babajide Adetokunbo Onafuwa.

2. He lived in Nigeria from the age of four until he returned to the United States for college.

3. Cole holds a degree in art history from the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London.

4. He has been a Distinguished Writer in Residence at Bard College since 2014.

5. Cole’s photography work has been exhibited in prominent venues such as the Steven Kasher Gallery in New York.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Teju Cole

1. “To be alive, it seemed to me, as I stood there in all kinds of sorrow, was to be both original and reflection, and to be dead was to be split off, to be reflection alone.”

2. “Every day, I recognize something in myself I don’t like. But, I also see something that I do like.”

3. “Writing is an act of courage. But it’s also an act of joy, of faith.”

4. “I think of writing as a kind of activism, even if the repercussions are not immediately felt or seen.”

5. “The city is an endless resource because every single time you step out, you encounter something new.”