The Thirteen Clocks is, on one level, an allegory of the struggle of humanity to create and sustain meaning in an indifferent universe. On a more accessible level, the story is an amusing and suspenseful fairy tale. Thurber has worked out both levels artfully. Characteristic of all his fairy tales, this story is replete with wordplay and humor.

On the allegorical level, the Duke seeks immortality by stopping time and collecting jewels. He hopes to crown his possessions with Saralinda, the warmth of human love and the radiance of mortal beauty. He fails to understand that he cannot have both, that he cannot warm his heart and light his soul with another's life. To receive from another, he must give, and he cannot. Only the tears of sorrow last forever. The tears of laughter are mortal, and so must be repeatedly renewed. To realize their love...