Ocasek referred to the song as "the big return to pop" after the more art rock style of the preceding album, Panorama.

[2] Add to these keyboardist Greg Hawkes' synthesizer lines, the associated instrument of bands labeled "new wave" at the time, and it is a prime example of The Cars' genre blending.

He first plays a Fender Telecaster, in a style skewing country, then midway through the solo switches to a Gibson guitar for a heavier rock sound.

"[8] Record World said that "A rapid-pulse rhythm supports melodic keyboard enchantment, stinging guitars and an undeniable chorus hook.

However, bassist and singer Benjamin Orr has stated the song tells the story of how important it is to make a mark in life, to "let them know what you really mean".