In the years leading up to his passing, Professor William James dedicated himself to articulating his thoughts on key metaphysical issues in a book intended for philosophy enthusiasts. He began crafting this introductory textbook for students in metaphysics in March 1909, driven by a deep ambition to complete it. Unfortunately, illness and other demands on his waning strength hindered his progress, and what is now available represents the entirety of his work at the time of his death in August 1910. - Summary by Henry James, Jr.