This poem is an extended metaphor for the demise of a previous relationship. The speaker in the poem describes how his girlfriend leaves him on November 11th, which was also the day they met. Then, just like a clock, she stops working. The word "clock" is used seven times in this poem to describe his girlfriend's leaving. Each time, he uses it metaphorically to indicate that she is going from being his source of comfort to being someone who causes him pain. Finally, on the 12th night, when he can no longer stand her silence, he calls her phone number and gets her answering machine. Thus, the poem can be seen as an extended metaphor for a broken heart. Or, it could be viewed as a speaker describing his experience with love and loss. Have a happy Thanksgiving!