tell me how all this, and love too, will ruin us

_{Viceroy Tulip, 1637}

Tulipomania*

Was a period in the Dutch Golden Age during which contract prices for bulbs of the recently introduced tulip reached extraordinarily high levels and then suddenly collapsed. At the peak of tulip mania, in February 1637, some single tulip bulbs sold for more than 10 times the annual income of a skilled craftsman. It is generally considered the first recorded speculative bubble.

Goods Allegedly Exchanged For a Single Bulb of the Viceroy

• Four fat oxen
• Twelve fat sheep
• Two hogsheads of wine
• Four casks of beer
• Two tons** of butter
• 1,000 lbs. of cheese
• A complete bed
• A suit of clothes

So, Tumblr hivemind dearests, I am embarking on teaching a new class on “The Literature of Economics.” Your recommendations on sports writing were incredible and far-reaching. You’ve all played a hand in shaping the young minds of tomorrow! How about helping me with some recommendations on essays, articles, or fiction on economics? Podcasts? Films? Remember, in this scenario you are a 16 year old. Engaging and relevant is the name of the game.

_{*Also see: Orchidelirium}

_{**Is this the origin of the Dutch slur “butter-box”?!!}