Venom: The Madness # 1 1993 NM-

Venom: The Madness #1 (1993) is the first issue of a three-part limited series published by Marvel Comics in November 1993. Written by Ann Nocenti and illustrated by Kelley Jones, the series is known for its abstract, psychedelic art style and its exploration of the deteriorating mental state of Eddie Brock and his symbiote. 

Creative Team

• Writer: Ann Nocenti
• Penciler: Kelley Jones
• Inker: John Beatty
• Colorist: Tom Smith 

Story Summary: "Toxic Kisses"

Set in San Francisco while Venom is living in an underground community of homeless individuals, the story delves into environmental and psychological horror. 

• The Conflict: Venom attempts to protect a lawyer, Beck Underwood, and her client, Abby Rubin, from Scarmore Industries. The company is involved in illegal toxic waste dumping related to the "Mercury Project".
• The Villain: Scarmore hires the Juggernaut (Cain Marko) to silence the witnesses. During a brutal battle, Juggernaut smashes Venom into the sewers.
• The Virus: While trapped in contaminated sewer water, Venom is infected by a sentient Mercury Virus. This virus offers to save him by bonding with the symbiote, causing it to sprout extra heads and appendages and driving the already unstable Venom into a deep, hallucinogenic madness. 

The issue is notable for its multi-level embossed cover. 

• First Appearance: This issue features the 1st appearance of Beck Underwood.