In "The Sellout," Paul Beatty humorously critiques the image and practices of the Supreme Court, suggesting that the ban on cameras is not about maintaining decorum but rather about shielding the public from the truths behind its operations. He likens the courtroom's proceedings to a form of exposed obscenity, where power dynamics are laid bare in uncomfortable ways, akin to a raw display of sexuality and power. This metaphor challenges the reverence often afforded to the judicial system.

Beatty's provocative language suggests that the legal system engages in acts that could be seen as both revealing and scandalous. By pointing out that the Supreme Court deals in 'constitutional pornography,' he draws attention to the complexities of justice, power, and societal norms. The quote ultimately emphasizes the need for transparency in institutions that wield significant authority over people's lives, questioning the motives behind the restrictions imposed on observing legal proceedings.