This excerpt vividly captures a complex moment of visceral emotion intertwined with introspective thought. The phrase "an odd paternal rush" evokes an instinctive, perhaps almost involuntary, surge of protective or commanding emotion associated with fatherhood or authority, which feels both natural and slightly unfamiliar—hence "odd." Describing it as "a blood surge" emphasizes its visceral, primal nature, suggesting that this reaction is deeply rooted in biological or emotional heat. The idea that this blood is "also blood" could imply a tautological emphasis on the rawness and fundamental nature of the emotion—it's as intrinsic and unfiltered as blood itself.

The subsequent description of Howard’s "expansive intelligence" searching for words depicts the mind engaged in an internal struggle or effort—perhaps trying to articulate complex feelings or thoughts that are difficult to pin down. It suggests a scene where intense emotion is provoking a need for precise self-expression, highlighting the challenge of transforming raw feelings into language. Importantly, it reflects on the limitations of language when faced with profound emotional states.

Overall, this passage invites reflection on the human experience of confronting powerful, sometimes confusing feelings and the struggle to communicate them effectively. The imagery links inner emotional turbulence with cerebral activity, underscoring the intricate dance between emotion and intellect. It’s a beautifully constructed portrayal of a heartfelt, almost urgent moment of internal dialogue, which many can relate to—when feelings overwhelm us, and we search within to find words that can do justice to our experiences.

On Beauty by Zadie Smith masterfully explores themes of identity, emotion, and social complexity, often delving into characters' inner worlds with nuanced language like this, illustrating how profound emotional reactions are intertwined with intellectual processes.