In Paul Beatty's novel "The Sellout", the protagonist reflects on the persistence of negative racial stereotypes. Through the quote, he suggests that such archetypes, exemplified by characters like Bebe’s Kids, don’t fade away over time but instead tend to proliferate. This highlights a broader commentary on how societal perceptions of race can be deeply entrenched and seemingly inescapable.
Beatty's work delves into the complexities of race and identity in modern America, using satire to address serious issues. The notion that these stereotypes multiply rather than diminish emphasizes the ongoing struggle against racism and the challenge of dismantling harmful portrayals that continue to impact society.