The inspiration is from Ecclesiasters of the Bible-- how the wise sees through life. 

The designer used 12 thick books+clocks to arrange into a big clock setting. The 12 books symbolize rich lives, yet each life is filled with happiness, anger and sadness; ups and downs has its time. I.e.: a time to be born and a time to die; a time to weep and a time to smile; a time for war and a time for peace; a time to plant and a time to uproot; a time to love and a time to hate... These life experiences are no stranger to us.