In Steve Martin's "Shopgirl," the character Mirabelle reflects on the nature of conversation in the context of free activities. She recognizes that sitting quietly in a movie theater doesn’t demand any interaction, but a free outing, such as a walk on Hollywood Boulevard, relies heavily on dialogue and shared experiences. This contrast highlights the social expectations that accompany outings, particularly those that don't have a monetary cost.

Mirabelle harbors concerns about her relationship, especially given the limited communication between her and her companion. With only a few exchanges of words, she fears that their future outings will be unenjoyable. This anxiety underscores the importance of conversation in developing connections and suggests that meaningful interaction is crucial to enhancing otherwise free experiences.