Teju Cole specializes in creating meaning from unusual places. He delivers a profound statement that is meant to be pondered with his photography. This pairing delivers a sense of confusion at first, as most wouldn’t expect.

 

“Hospitality is political, and personal. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Repair a friendship. Start with one. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Begin today.”

 

With this quote, Teju Cole introduces a warm photo, consisting of slight shades of orange mixed with brown and white. The painting can evoke comfort reminding us of a calming evening by the fire; it can also symbolize a rebirth, like how autumn leaves are discarded for the season only to grow back in force. All of this ties into the message he paired with the photo. He tells us to forget the past, and start fresh. Forget the politics of the past, and instead, work on growing towards the future.