Teju Cole’s "Every Day Is for the Thief" was deeply influenced by his personal experiences, particularly his return to Lagos, Nigeria, after 13 years of living abroad. This homecoming served as a profound shock to his system, as he encountered both the familiar and unfamiliar aspects of the city where he grew up. The visit became a way for him to grapple with the changes in himself and in Lagos, as well as the aspects of the city that had remained unchanged. Cole described this period as an intense and transformative time, during which he obsessively documented his observations and reflections in a series of blog posts over 30 days. These posts later evolved into the novella, blending memoir, fiction, and travelogue elements.

Cole's education in art history and exposure to global literature also formed his narrative style, which blends modernist techniques with personal introspection. Ultimately, "Every Day Is for the Thief" is both a personal exploration of identity and a broader commentary on contemporary Nigerian society.

Identity and Belonging
The protagonist, a Nigerian living in America, returns to Lagos and grapples with his sense of identity and belonging. The novel explores how one's sense of self can be shaped by cultural roots and experiences.

Corruption and Governance
A prominent theme in the novel is the pervasive corruption in Nigerian society, from everyday bribery to more systemic issues within government and institutions. The protagonist encounters various instances of corruption during his visit, reflecting broader societal issues.

Urban Life and Alienation
The novel portrays the bustling urban environment of Lagos and captures the contradictions and complexities of city life. It explores how rapid urbanization affects individuals' sense of connection to their surroundings and to each other.

Memory and History
Through encounters with places and people from his past, the protagonist reflects on memory and history. The novel delves into personal and collective memory, highlighting how individuals reckon with their past and its impact on their present.

Economic Disparities
Cole discusses economic disparities in Nigeria, contrasting the lives of the wealthy elite with the struggles of the majority. He portrays the stark divide between different socioeconomic classes and the impact of economic inequality on society.

Culture and Tradition
The novel explores Nigerian culture and traditions, depicting rituals, customs, and cultural practices. It also examines how globalization and modernity intersect with traditional ways of life.

Migration and Diaspora
The protagonist's experience of returning to Nigeria from America raises themes of migration, diaspora identity, and the complexities of navigating between different cultures and countries.

Narrative Style and Perspective
Cole employs a reflective and observational narrative style, blending fiction with elements of memoir and travelogue. The novel's narrative perspective allows for a nuanced exploration of its themes and topics.

Overall, "Every Day Is for the Thief" offers a poignant portrayal of contemporary Nigerian society through its exploration of identity, corruption, urban life, memory, economic disparities, culture, and the complexities of migration and diaspora identity.

Readers often appreciate the novel for its realistic portrayal of Lagos, capturing the chaotic yet vibrant essence of the city. Cole's descriptive writing style immerses the reader in the sights, sounds, and complexities of urban Nigeria.

Cole's narrative is contemplative and introspective, with the protagonist reflecting on his personal experiences and observations. This reflective tone allows for a deeper exploration of themes such as identity, belonging, and the contrast between diaspora perspectives and local realities.

"Every Day Is for the Thief" has generally been well-received for its literary merit and cultural insight. It has been praised for its evocative prose and its ability to present a multifaceted portrait of a city in flux..

Overall, the novel offers readers a thought-provoking exploration of identity, place, and the complexities of modern Nigeria, making it a significant work in contemporary African literature.