As a young man Fernando Pessoa wrote be plural like the universe. Staying true to this, he went on to invent over 100 fictional alter-egos, which he called heteronyms. This philosophical biography navigates Pessoas early days in Lisbon and South Africa, reveals a philosopher-poet and pioneer of Portuguese modernism, and delves into the birth of Pessoas heteronymic universe. Bartholomew Ryan describes Pessoas writings on evolving radical politics, his ventures into esoteric realms, and his expertise in astrology. The book unravels Pessoas real and imaginary relationships, and explores his unfinished prose masterpiece, The Book of Disquiet. Pessoas revolutionary concepts of identity and self-multiplicity have become more widely accessible and relatable today due to their increasing occurrence in modern society. This is a compelling, timely exploration of Pessoas profound, innovative ideas.