In "The Sellout" by Paul Beatty, the author delves into the complexities of race and guilt within the black community. He suggests that black individuals often grapple with a sense of guilt tied to societal expectations and their identities. This internal conflict can be alleviated only when they feel they have committed an offense, as it allows them to reconcile their innocence with the systemic pressures they face.

Beatty's quote highlights how the fear of incarceration paradoxically offers a sense of relief from the burden of cognitive dissonance. For some, the idea of being wrongfully judged or facing punishment for something they did not do becomes a troubling yet familiar aspect of their existence, pointing to the broader issues of race relations and justice in society.