In our inaugural issue of Compos we delve into the depths of existential dread to understand how this profound feeling manifests itself through politics, economics, world events, the media and personal experiences. In this edition look to see how the new presidential administration in the United States has created a feeling of despair for so many. We also uncover what the COVID-19 pandemic can teach us about overcoming existential dread. This issue is not only about uncovering the darkness behind this feeling, but also serves as a guiding light that ranges from literature to movies to help you connect and understand this human feeling.