1. The Premise Itself: The very idea of a "Black No More" machine, capable of instantaneously transforming black people into white, is inherently satirical. It highlights the superficiality and absurdity of racial classifications, implying that the distinction between black and white is a meaningless social construct.
2. Exaggeration and Hyperbole: The novel uses exaggeration and hyperbole to satirize the discriminatory practices and beliefs of the time. For example, the rapid social and economic ascent of "white" Max Johnson after his transformation is a blatant exaggeration of the advantages afforded to white people.
3. Mockery of Stereotypes: Schuyler uses satire to mock the racist stereotypes that were prevalent in society. The characters who undergo the "Black No More" treatment are often portrayed as shallow, materialistic, and driven by a desire for social acceptance and power. This mocks the assumptions and prejudices that society held about black people.
4. Irony and Reverse Racism: The novel uses irony to expose the hypocrisy of those who claim to be racially tolerant. The character of Dr. Junius Crookman, a white philanthropist who promotes racial equality, is actually deeply racist and exploitative. This reveals the inherent contradictions in the fight for equality when it is often driven by self-interest and a desire for power.
5. Humorous Scenarios: Schuyler's use of satire often leads to humorous scenarios that expose the absurdity of racial prejudice. For example, the scene where Max Johnson's former black friends are initially reluctant to accept him after his transformation, due to their fear of his newfound "whiteness," is a comical and satirical observation of the power of social conditioning.
6. The Transformation of Characters: The transformation of characters like Max Johnson and his wife, Helen, is satirical in itself. It highlights the arbitrary nature of racial categorization and the potential for individuals to be easily swayed by superficial appearances.
In summary, "Black No More" uses satire as a powerful tool to challenge deeply ingrained racial biases and expose the hypocrisy of society. It does this by exaggerating, inverting, and mocking the very concepts of race and prejudice.