When I write, I have a sort of secret kinship of readers in all countries who don’t know each other but each of whom, when they read my book, feels at home in it. So I write for those readers. It’s almost a sense of writing for a specific person, but it’s a specific person who I don’t know.

In this quote, Teju Cole describes his writing process as an intimate connection with readers from around the world who share a common bond through his work. He imagines these readers as individuals he doesn't know personally but feels a special kinship with because they find comfort and recognition in his stories.

Cole's statement touches on the universal appeal of literature and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. By writing for an unknown individual, Cole emphasizes the idea that great writing often stems from creating something deeply personal yet universally relatable. This approach allows authors to bridge gaps between diverse readers by tapping into shared human experiences. It suggests that when a writer connects with their work in this profound way, they can reach out and touch others who feel seen and heard through those words.

Teju Cole is an accomplished Nigerian-American author, art curator, and photographer known for his insightful essays and novels that explore themes of history, identity, and culture. His writings often draw from personal experiences and observations to create narratives that resonate with a wide audience, reflecting the sentiment he expresses in this quote about the intimate yet universal nature of writing.