You have to read Tulip Fever in the right spirit. It's a clever, literate, witty, fast-paced tale of intrigue, love, lust, and greed, and the tragedy that results from trying to outwit the gods or fate. Yet the rhythm is such that one can't be too sad or take it too seriously. Just sit back for the roller coaster ride and let the sights and sounds of 17th century Amersterdam, and the characters in their silly and reckless behavior that will be their undoing wash over you.