 Critics have queried the song's classification as country music, with those in agreement (such as Grady Smith of "Rolling Stone") citing the themes and narrative style as country-influenced and those opposed (such as Roger Holland of "PopMatters") indicating the pop music production and instrumentation lack traditional country elements.Critics reacted positively to the track, complimenting Swift's vocal delivery and songwriting style.The song is considered to be Swift's breakthrough single, as it spread her popularity throughout the United States.