This traffic-court jester did more than tell jokes; he plucked out your subconscious and beat you silly with it, not until you were unrecognizable, but until you were recognizable.
In Paul Beatty's novel "The Sellout," the protagonist uses humor not merely for entertainment but as a means of introspection. The jester in a traffic court serves to challenge people, exposing subconscious biases and societal norms through laughter. This method forces individuals to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves, making them more aware of their identities and the constructs surrounding them.
Beatty's portrayal emphasizes the transformative power of comedy, suggesting that laughter can be a form of psychological awakening. By pushing the audience to reflect on their realities, the jester's role becomes a profound commentary on culture and self-perception, ultimately aiming for recognition and personal growth.
