In Steve Martin's novel "Shopgirl," the author explores the dynamics of a relationship involving a passive female character. This girl is depicted as someone lacking confidence, with a soft voice and a tendency to be dependent on others. She embodies a sense of helplessness, raising questions about her place and agency in her interactions with men.

The quoted line prompts readers to reflect on how such a character would be perceived by men. It emphasizes the struggles of a woman who cannot assert herself, eliciting deeper considerations about worth and attraction in relationships. This dynamic sets the stage for themes of vulnerability and the complexities of desire.