Create an Edward Gorey-inspired illustration featuring a skeletal figure encased within a crumbling wall, evoking mystery and decay. Render the skeletal remains with meticulous cross-hatching, emphasizing cracks in the bones and subtle textures in the decaying wall. A lone observer stands below, gazing up at the figure with a posture that suggests contemplation or quiet awe, maintaining simple, stylized proportions in line with Gorey’s characters. Use negative space around the scene to heighten the sense of isolation and surreal stillness. Add symbolic motifs, such as a small bird perched on the bones or a pocket watch dangling from the skeletal hand, hinting at the passage of time and lost narratives. The overall composition should evoke a blend of melancholy and dark curiosity, capturing the essence of Gorey’s eerie yet poetic storytelling style.