Around 1339, the mechanical clock began to be introduced in various European cities, marking a significant advancement in timekeeping technology. This innovation allowed for more precise measurement of time, which was crucial for both daily life and the scheduling of events such as religious services and markets. The mechanical clock's introduction transformed societal structures and influenced cultural practices, including the way poetry was composed and recited, as poets began to align their works with the rhythms of the clock.

The emergence of the mechanical clock inspired poets to explore themes of time and mortality in their works. For instance, poets like Geoffrey Chaucer later reflected on the passage of time in their writings, which was influenced by the new societal emphasis on timekeeping. This shift contributed to the development of literary forms that engaged with temporal themes, enriching the poetic landscape of the era.