* The introduction of the zebra: The arrival of the zebra at the zoo is the catalyst for the story. It sparks a fascination and curiosity in the narrator, who is struggling to understand the world around him.
* The narrator's fascination with the zebra: The narrator's obsession with the zebra, his attempts to understand its behavior, and his emotional connection to the animal create a sense of tension and anticipation.
* The narrator's encounter with the zookeeper: The narrator's conversations with the zookeeper, who represents a different perspective on the zebra, provide insight into the animal's nature and highlight the narrator's struggles with acceptance and understanding.
* The zebra's death: The unexpected death of the zebra is the climax of the story. This event forces the narrator to confront his own mortality and the fragility of life, marking a significant turning point in his journey of self-discovery.
While there isn't a traditional "rising action" in the sense of a plot that builds towards a specific climax, the story builds tension and emotional complexity through the narrator's experiences and his evolving relationship with the zebra. It's through these encounters and events that the narrator ultimately reaches a point of personal growth and understanding.