In 1374, the mechanical clock was further developed in Europe, particularly in Italy and England, marking a significant advancement in timekeeping technology. This invention allowed for more precise measurement of time, which had a profound impact on daily life, commerce, and cultural practices. The mechanical clock became a symbol of the increasing importance of time management in society, influencing various aspects of life.

The invention of the mechanical clock influenced poetry by introducing themes of time and mortality. Poets began to explore the passage of time in their works, reflecting on its fleeting nature. This shift can be seen in the writings of later poets such as John Donne, who would grapple with the implications of time in his metaphysical poetry, shaping the literary landscape of the Renaissance.