The main concept came from Anthony Moore, but David Gilmour has stated that he re-wrote the last verse of both "On the Turning Away" and "Learning to Fly".

Bassist Guy Pratt has said about its musical structure (referring to the fact that he had to guide Phil Manzanera and Steve DiStanislao through a completely unplanned performance of it in 2006): "The song only has five chords in it, but they don't necessarily show up where you think they will.

"[5] It has also been noted for being one of Pink Floyd's rhythmically most complex songs, constantly alternating between various time signatures.

[8] The song charted at 47 in the Netherlands,[9] and 34 in New Zealand [10] Cash Box, referring to Waters' departure and Gilmour taking over the songwriting duties, said that "Atlas shrugged, and the results are stunning" and that the song "is filled with apocalyptic imagery and roughhewn rock foundations that Floyd fans crave.

"[11] The music video for the track featured a live recording and concert footage filmed during the band's three night run at The Omni in Atlanta, Georgia from 3 to 5 November 1987 directed by Lawrence Jordan (who has directed concert films for Rush, Mariah Carey, and Billy Joel).