1. Symbolism of Time Passing:
- Clocks and watches, especially during wartime, represent the relentless passing of time. They remind the reader and the main character, Peyton Farquhar, of the inexorable march towards his predetermined fate.
2. Time Dilation and Subjective Experience:
- The story begins with Peyton's perception of time slowing down significantly just before his execution. This dilation of time is depicted through his contemplation of various objects, including a watch he holds in his hand. This subjective experience highlights how time can feel differently depending on one's emotional and psychological state.
3. Irony and Dramatic Tension:
- Peyton repeatedly looks at his watch during his capture and in the moments before his execution, believing there's a chance for escape or rescue. This generates a sense of irony and heightened suspense, as the readers know the escape plan is a psychological illusion created by Peyton's mind.
4. Psychological Collapse and Disorientation:
- The story emphasizes the impact of impending death on the human mind. Peyton's perception of time, and his sense of reality, becomes distorted, adding to the unsettling and disorienting nature of the story.
5. Symbol of Control and Power:
- Clocks and watches represent the control and power held by the Confederate soldiers over Peyton. They mark the exact moment of his scheduled execution and serve as a constant reminder of his lack of agency.
6. Contrast Between Internal and External Time:
- The story distinguishes between the internal subjective time experienced by Peyton and the objective external time measured by the clocks. This contrast amplifies the tension between Peyton's psychological state and the impending, inevitable reality of his death.
In conclusion, clocks and watches in "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" carry symbolic significance related to time perception, psychological collapse, and the power dynamic between the characters. Bierce's use of these timepieces enhance the story's complexity and create a profound exploration of human experience in the face of death and extraordinary circumstances.