In the book "An Echo in the Bone" by Diana Gabaldon, the character experiences an overwhelming rush of emotions characterized by grief and shock. These feelings are so intense that they spill over, making it impossible for the character to manage or contain them, indicating the depth of their sorrow and emotional turmoil.

The expression of grief in this way suggests that the character is grappling with significant loss, highlighting the struggle to cope with profound feelings. The absence of tears implies that the emotional impact is beyond what can be expressed in a single moment and presents a powerful insight into the nature of mourning.