"Shopgirl" is a novella by Steve Martin that revolves around the life of Mirabelle Buttersfield, a young woman who works serving customers at a high-end glove counter in Los Angeles. She's a dreamer, feeling isolated and out of place in a city that often seems superficial. Despite her mundane job, Mirabelle's life takes a turn when she becomes involved with two very different men, enriching her experiences and pushing her to confront her own desires and insecurities.
The story explores themes of love, loneliness, and the search for identity. As Mirabelle navigates her relationships, the contrast between the men emphasizes her internal struggles. One suitor is a wealthy, older man, while the other is a younger, more carefree individual. This dichotomy represents her conflicting desires for stability and passion, making her journey one of self-discovery and emotional growth.