The main part of the song is split into four stanzas, divided by an instrumental section called "The Return of the Fire Witch".

The song climaxes at seven minutes, but after a pause continues with a brief instrumental interlude called "The Dance of the Puppets", before ending with a reprise of the main theme.

The music was composed by Ian McDonald, and the lyrics were written by Peter Sinfield.

Cash Box said "Unusual lyric imagery and instrumental impact with a 'Jude' hypnotism should set the side on a breakout path.

"[4] Record World called it "a heavy hard rock item with some classy jazz overtones.