In Sophie Kinsella's "Wedding Night," the metaphor of a divorce as a controlled explosion captures the chaos and emotional upheaval that often accompany the end of a marriage. While the individuals directly involved experience turmoil, those observing from a distance may remain unaffected and oblivious to the turmoil unfolding. This analogy highlights the contrast between external appearances and internal struggles, emphasizing how deeply personal issues can be hidden from public view.

The quote suggests that, similar to an explosion that is contained, a divorce can be messy yet managed to some extent. It points to the complex dynamics and the varying degrees of impact that a separation has on different people. While those going through the divorce may feel the intense fallout, onlookers often perceive it as an event rather than a life-altering experience for the individuals involved. This encapsulates the multifaceted nature of relationships and the societal perception of personal crises.