"Such a Shame" was inspired by Luke Rhinehart's The Dice Man,[3] one of composer Mark Hollis' favourite books.

"[4] The song was released as the album's second single in early 1984, with the cover art designed by James Marsh.

Writing in the NME, Richard Cook slated the song, describing it as "faceless regret coaxed from lurex trashcan.

"[5] "Such a Shame" became a hit in continental Europe in 1984 and 1985, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including number 1 in Switzerland.

German singer Sandra covered "Such a Shame" for her seventh studio album The Wheel of Time (2002).