Time is a theme in this story, and the clock is symbolic of the theme. The clock resides in the seventh room of the abbey in which the prince and guests are enjoying a party.
The chiming of the clock agitates the guests because it is a reminder of the inevitability of death. While there are plenty of distractions and revelry, the guests are unable to forget that one cannot escape death. The chiming pervades the atmosphere with doom, despite the best efforts of the guests.
When midnight arrives, which signals the ending of another day, it is symbolic of the end of the party guest's lives. As the last guest dies, the clock stops, as well. Finally, there is silence.
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