It is identified as an 'anti-war' track, although McCluskey stated he 'wasn't really politically motivated to write the song', which was informed by a fascination with World War II bombers. He hoped it 'conveyed an ambivalence about whether it was the right or the wrong thing to do'. The song met with largely positive reviews. Greg Reibman of Boston Rock wrote, 'With 'Enola Gay', Orchestral Manoeuvres drop another devastating warhead on the world of inferior pop music. these guys are right on target.' Canberra Times critic Jonathan Green described the track as 'super', with 'a lovely melody that makes for an utterly infectious song'. Daniela Soave of Record Mirror called it 'infinitely danceable, joyous and jumpy', while noting an uneasy juxtaposition between the musical content and sombre lyrics. NME said the track has 'considerable plusses' including a 'glorious melody', but expressed reservations about its commercial prospects, feeling it was destined for 'chartless oblivion'. The song was perceived by some as a gay anthem as such, it was banned from being played on popular BBC1 children's programme Swap Shop.
ĭespite its subject matter, the single was released at a time of strong anti-nuclear sentiment in Britain.
This, according to the BBC, helped it become an 'unlikely hit'.
