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Overall, Shopgirl was an interesting novel; each section was important to the plot and the development of each of the individual characters. After much contemplation, I think a possible meaning of this story is that when one spends time getting to know a person, understanding their moods and personality, one become irrevocably attached to that person: they genuinely care for and love them even if they are unable to admit it to themselves. This meaning would be explained by the entirety of Mirabelle and Ray’s relationship: how it began, ended, etc.

The repetition of one line at the end of the book was something I found interesting; even though I am not sure I fully understand why the author chose to do this. In the middle of the novel when Mirabelle lied to her boss and chooses to enjoy an extended lunch break she sees a ‘repulsive’ woman talking on her cell phone saying “. . . just remember darling, it is pain that changes our lives” (Martin 53). After hearing this “Mirabelle cannot fathom the meaning of this sentence, as she has been in pain her whole life, and yet it remains unchanged” (Martin 54). The line “it is pain that changes our lives” is repeated on the last page of the novel when Mirabelle is consoling Ray after he attempts to apologize for the way their relationship ended. This could be because the author wants to point out that one may not know how deeply seemingly innocent or likely to be forgotten events/occurrences may affect him/her.

Steve Martin surprises all with this entertaining novella. Well written and with emotionally deep characters, the story engages the reader from start to finish.