나가사키가 사랑한 남자... 그 '우상화'의 함정 - 오마이뉴스 2022

나가사키가 사랑한 남자... 그 '우상화'의 함정 - 오마이뉴스



나가사키가 사랑한 남자... 그 '우상화'의 함정[나가사키 평화기행①] 나가이 다카시 기념관과 여기당
13.04.22 
전은옥(malgeul)


공감4

 
기자는 2009년 3월부터 2011년 2월까지 나가사키에 체류하며, 전쟁과 원자폭탄, 핵 피해자 문제 그리고 일본의 평화운동 등에 관하여 연구했다. 일본의 침략과 가해의 역사를 전시하며 지역의 평화교육을 담당하고 있는 '오카마사하루 기념 나가사키 평화자료관'의 객원연구원을 지낸 기자는 2년 가까운 나가사키에서의 현장 답사 및 자료연구에 더하여, 지난 4월 1~5일, 추가로 나가사키 현장취재를 다녀왔다. 이를 바탕으로 '나가사키 평화기행'을 주제로 한 기사를 약 10회에 걸쳐 연재한다. <기자 말>

내가 그를 처음 만난 것은 나가사키 시립 원폭자료관에서였다. 원폭자료관 전시 코너 한 곳에 한 남성을 기념하는 코너가 있었다. 자신도 원자폭탄에 피폭되어 큰 부상을 입었으면서도 부상자와 원폭증 환자를 위하여 헌신적으로 구호와 치료활동에 임하고 원폭증 연구보고서도 낼 만큼 필사적으로 노력한 위인으로 기려지고 있었다.

내가 그를 두 번째 만난 것은 나가이 다카시 기념관에서였다. 거리상으로 원폭자료관에서도 멀지 않은 곳에 위치해 있었다. 그때도 지금도 이곳의 관장은 나가이 박사의 손자가 맡고 있는데, 마침 그날도 인사를 나눌 수 있었고 미안하게도 팸플릿까지 선물로 받았다.


큰사진보기
▲ 원자폭탄 투하와 패전 후의 나가이 박사. 백혈병과 싸우며 그는 병상에서 인류 평화를 기원하는 수많은 저술을 남겼다.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기

전시물과 팜플렛, 그리고 박사의 저작물도 하나하나 꼼꼼히 뜯어보다가 순간 멈칫했다. 나가이 박사는 원자폭탄이 투하되기 전부터 이미 의사로서 뢴트겐 방사선을 너무 많이 쬐어서 백혈병에 걸렸다. 나가이 박사가 원폭 피폭 직후에도 원폭증과 그 치료 방법의 연구, 또 전쟁과 원폭의 비극 위에서 인류 평화를 기원하는 수많은 저작을 집필하며 병상에 누워 있을 때 일본의 '천황' 히로히토가 그를 찾아왔다.


바로 전쟁을 일으키고, 어린아이부터 어른, 외국인까지 강제로 전쟁에 동원하여 무고한 희생을 낳은 그가 나가이 박사의 건강을 빈다고 말한 일에 대해 나가이 박사는 굳이 책 속에까지 담아서 이렇게 썼다. "얼마나 고마운 말씀인가"라고. 이 대목이 목구멍에 돌멩이처럼 콕 박혀 내내 마음에 걸렸다.

그래서 나가이 박사의 책을 구입해놓고도 책장을 펼쳐들고 읽는 데까지는 수 년의 세월이 필요했다. 아무래도 나가이 박사에게 마음을 열고 그의 문장을 읽어보자고 생각하는 자체가 가볍지 않았다. 최근에야 나가이 박사의 책 <나가사키의 종> <로사리오의 구슬>등을 읽었다. 또 얼마 전 다시 한 번 나가이 박사가 살았던 집터 '여기당(如己堂)'과 나가이 다카시 기념관을 찾았다.


큰사진보기
▲ 나가이 다카시 박사가 만년에 기거했던 집. 그는 이 집을 '여기당(如己堂)'이라고 이름 붙였다. '네 이웃을 네 몸과 같이 사랑하라'는 뜻을 담은 말이다.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기

'여기당'은 병상에 눕게 된 박사를 위해 1948년 봄, 우라카미의 이웃들이 지어준 2첩 단칸방의 나무집으로, 전쟁과 원폭 투하 후 폐허가 되어 너나 할 것 없이 가난하게 살던 그 당시 십시일반 온 정성 다해 집을 지어준 이웃들의 마음에 감사하며, "네 이웃을 네 몸과 같이 사랑하라"는 예수 그리스도가 남긴 성서 속 한 말씀에서 따와 붙인 이름이라 한다.

나가이 박사는 독실한 가톨릭 신자였고, 우라카미는 그리스도교 박해와 수난의 긴 역사 속에서 신앙을 지켜온 유서깊은 마을이다. 동시에 우라카미는 원자폭탄 낙하 중심지로서 가장 큰 피해를 입은 지역이기도 하다.

기념관에 들어서니, 동행해주신 한 일본인 선생님이 나가이 박사가 생전에 남긴 저술 등에서 뽑아낸 명구절들을 전시해놓은 코너 앞에서 돌연 내게 "어떻게 생각해요?"라고 질문을 던지셨다. 우리가 멈춰선 그 앞에는 나가이 박사가 남긴 다음과 같은 구절들이 있었다.

"아름다웠던 나가사키를 이런 잿빛 언덕으로 바꾼 것은 누구인가? (줄임) 우리들이다. 어리석은 전쟁을 일으킨 것은 우리들 자신인 것이다."

"그 활기 넘치던 동네를 거대한 화장터로 만들고, 묘지로 바꾼 것은 누군가? 우리들이다. 열심히 군함을 만들고 어뢰를 만들었던 우리 시민들이다." - <꽃피는 언덕>에서

"글쎄요. 좋은 말을 많이 했군요"라며 적당히 대답하려는 나에게 선생님이 자신의 의견을 말씀하셨다.

"전쟁을 '일으킨 것'은 우리들 자신이 아니에요. 전쟁을 일으킨 사람은 따로 있죠. 그리고 시민들은 열심히 '군함을 만들고 어뢰를 만들도록 강요를 당한 것'이지, 즐거워서 열심히 그것을 만든 것이 아니에요. 이건 바로 전쟁과 원폭의 책임을 '일반 시민'과 '우리 모두'라는 대상에게 돌려서 가해자, 책임자가 누구인지를 정확히 하지 않고 얼버무리고자 했던 당시 전쟁 책임자들이 원했던 말이에요."


큰사진보기
▲ 나가이 다카시 기념관 내 전시물에 소개된 '히로히토 천황'의 나가이 다카시 박사 방문 사진 등.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기

선생님은 나가이 박사가 책임자를 정확히 언급한 적 없이, '우리들 시민들 모두'에게 책임을 돌린 데 대하여 위화감을 느낀다고 말했다.

나가이 박사가 원폭으로 아내를 잃고 또 백혈병 환자로서 시한부 인생을 살았던 점이나 남겨진 아이들을 돌보며 병상에서도 최후까지 필사적으로 저술을 했던 것은 분명 인간으로서 안타깝고 애절한 사연이며, 의료와 구호활동 등에 있어 그의 삶의 업적은 분명히 평가할 만한 부분이지만, 그 업적과 함께 한계점도 분명히 봐야 한다는 게 선생님의 의견이었다. 이렇게 말하는 선생님도 나가사키 원폭의 피해자였다.

나는 그때 그 자리에서 이렇게 대답했던 걸로 기억한다.

"전쟁의 책임은 일본 천황과 당시 전쟁을 일으키고 주동하고 적극 협력한 권력집단에 있죠. 이 경우 분명한 책임자와 가해자를 지목하고 처벌하는 것이 전후 청산이죠. 하지만 한편으로는 시민 한 사람 한 사람도 역시 당시의 아시아 침략전쟁과 가해의 역사에 대한 반성과 성찰을 해야 하지 않을까요? 책임자를 정확히 규명하는 것과 시민 한 사람 한 사람의 역사적 성찰과 반성은 같이 가야 하는 것 아닌가 싶은데…."

그 뒤 선생님에게 다시 한 번 이메일로 짧은 서신을 보냈지만, 역시 그때나 지금이나 선생님의 생각과 나의 생각이 대립하거나 상충하는 것은 아니라고 생각한다. 아마 선생님도 내 생각을 인정해주시시라 확신한다.

전쟁의 최고 책임자는 천황이다. 그리고 전쟁을 주동했던 전범들이 분명히 존재한다. 민중을 전쟁에 동원하고 억압하고, 타민족을 학살하고 강제동원하고 억압했던 책임자와 가해자는 엄연히 존재한다. 선생님의 말씀처럼 전쟁과 원폭을 '우리 모두의 책임'으로 돌려버리면, 진정한 책임주체를 은폐하고 역사를 더욱 왜곡시킬 위험이 있다. 따라서 이것을 분명히 하면서, 각자 시민 한 사람 한 사람의 반성도 필요하다.

그렇다면 나가이 박사는 어느 쪽이었을까. 우리 모두의 책임으로 돌려버린 쪽일까. 아니면 전쟁과 원폭의 책임이 일본천황과 군부, 권력층과 미국 등에 있다고 생각하면서도 그럼에도 불구하고 우리 한 사람 한 사람도 전쟁 체제의 일부였으니 반성해야 한다고 생각했을까. 아무래도 후자라고 말하기는 어려울 것 같다.


큰사진보기
▲ 나가이 다카시 기념관의 전시코너 일부. 나가이 박사는 의학자였지만 문장을 쓰는 작가로서의 능력 외에도 서예, 그림 솜씨에도 탁월해 많은 글씨와 그림을 남겼다.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기


큰사진보기
▲ 나가이 박사가 남긴 수많은 책들.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기

나가이 다카시 박사는 나가사키 의과대학 조교수로 일하던 중, 원자폭탄을 만났다. 이 재난 속에서 부인을 잃었고, 어린 두 아이를 홀로 키우게 되었다. 자신도 중상을 입었고 백혈병에도 걸린 몸이었지만, 인류역사상 유례없는 원자폭탄 재앙 속에서 한 생명이라도 더 구하기 위하여 구호활동을 하는 것과 더불어, 원폭 피해의 특수한 증상과 그 치료법에 대해서 연구했다. 그는 또한 부인과 결혼하기 직전 가톨릭 세례를 받고 신자가 되었는데, 전후 가톨릭 신자로서도 주옥같은 글을 남겨 나가사키에게 성인처럼 숭앙받고 있었다.

그를 만나러, 헬렌 켈러와 일본 천황, 로마 교황의 특사까지 방문했다. 1951년 결국 세상을 떠나면서는 의학의 발전에 공헌하기 위하여 자신의 시신을 해부하는 데 기증하기도 하였다. 그가 얼마나 나가사키시와 우라카미의 가톨릭 신도들의 사랑을 받았는가 하면, 그의 장례식이 나가사키 명예시민장으로 치러지고, 2만 명의 추모객이 참여해 그의 죽음을 애도하였고, 나가사키의 모든 교회와 사찰에서 종을 울려 조의를 표한 데서도 엿볼 수 있다. 지금 그는 인근의 사카모토 국제묘지에 잠들어 있다.


큰사진보기
▲ 나가이 박사가 숨을 거둔 1951년 5월. 원자폭탄으로 폐허가 된 우라카미교회에서 치러진 장례식에는 2만 여명의 추모객이 찾아왔다.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기

그는 분명히 인류애가 넘치고, 책임감과 의학자로서의 사명감이 투철한 의사이자 연구자였다. 또한 전쟁이 끝난 후부터 전쟁의 어리석음을 말하며 세계 평화를 염원하고 기도했던 한 사람의 가톨릭 신자였고, 주옥같은 문장을 그 짧은 세월 동안 엄청난 정신력으로 저술해낸 작가였다. 다만, 그것은 전쟁이 끝난 뒤의 일이다. 모든 일이 끝난 뒤였다.

특히 아무래도 나는 천황의 병문안에 황송해하며 감사해했던 것만큼은 도저히 받아들일 수가 없다. 분명히 일본인이라면 그 누구라도 천황의 방문을 받았다면 그러했을지도 모른다. 아니, 일반적 대다수 일본 시민이 천황을 대하는 자세는 그러하지 않을까. 나가이 박사도 그 중의 한 명이었을 것이다.

그러나 천황이야말로 바로 이 전쟁과 원자폭탄 피해를 불러일으킨 침략전쟁의 책임자요 전범이라고 생각할 때는 도저히 그의 방문도 반가울 수가 없고, 그가 이제 와서 몸은 괜찮으냐 회복을 빈다고 말하더라도, 오히려 그것이 더욱 가증스러운 것이다. 오히려 피폭자 앞에 무릎 꿇고 사죄해야 마땅하거늘.

그러나 현실에서는 달랐다. 지금도 일본 뉴스에서는 천황의 어린 손녀조차 '~사마(님)'로 불리고, 각종 전시관의 안내판이나 팜플렛이나 공식문서에서도 천황 뒤에는 '폐하'라는 말이 붙는다. 패전 후에 천황은 실질적 권력은 잃었지만 지금도 '상징적'인 천황제의 국가이니, 천황은 '폐하'로 불리고 신성하고 황송하고 고마운 존재인 것일까. 그것도 문화와 전통의 차이로서 인정해야 하는 부득불한 일인 것일까. 지금의 천황은 그렇다치고, 70년 전 일본의 최고 군수통치권자이고 국가대원수였던 그 천황이 바로 전범이라 해도?


큰사진보기
▲ 나가이 다카시 기념관 전시실 내부.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기


큰사진보기
▲ 나가사키 시립 원폭자료관의 나가이 다사키 박사 기념 전시 코너.
ⓒ 전은옥

관련사진보기

나가이 박사 개인을 매도하고 비판할 뜻은 없다. 아프고 힘들었을 삶에 대해 인간적인 연민도 느낀다. 중요한 것은 나가이 박사가 그러했고, 나가이 박사를 사랑하고 기리는 많은 사람들이 간과한 그 천황의 전쟁책임 문제를 비롯하여, 전쟁과 원폭의 책임은 누구에게 있는가 하는 질문을 각자가 스스로에게 던지고 사회적으로 묻고 답하는 과정 속에서 적당히 '우리 모두'가 죄인이라거나, '모두가 피해자'라거나, '모든 게 하나님의 뜻'이라거나 하는 식으로 도망쳐서는 안 된다는 것이다.

그리고 나가이 박사의 종적을 따라 나가사키를 여행하는 이들에게도, 원폭의 잔혹함과 비참함, 나가이 박사의 헌신적인 구호활동과 그 애절한 삶과 더불어, 누가 전쟁을 일으켰고, 누가 원자폭탄을 투하했으며, 그로 인한 희생과 그 책임은 누가 졌는지, 가해자는 그후 어디서 무얼했고, 피해자는 어떻게 살고 어떻게 죽어야 했는지에 대한 깊은 추궁이 필요하다는 생각이 든다. 원자폭탄은 어느날 갑자기 하늘에서 뚝 떨어지지 않았다.

A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb

Amazon.com.au:Customer reviews: A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb

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Patricia Flores

5.0 out of 5 stars When you rebuild the world from total destruction

Reviewed in Canada on 23 January 2021

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This a wonderful story on how to have faith, hope, and charity against all the odds, in the worst of circumstances. Dr. Nagai is a moral giant. The book is a one-sitting read; I couldn’t stop reading until finished. A very important point that I found interesting is the connection between faith and science that Dr. Nagai established all throughout his life, even before his conversion. Only one detail that puzzled me: how could the author state that Beethoven and Mozart were played in a pre-Vatican 2 Catholic Mass.

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nagasaki

5.0 out of 5 stars a song for nagasaki

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 March 2012

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this is the unforgetable story of a truly great man. Despite living through unimaginable horrors of many kinds, he never ceases to be so brave, so resourceful, so concerned for the welfare of others, so full of hope for the future, so profound in spirit. The background of his Japanese culture moulds so perfectly with his devout Catholic faith, that as a Christian from the western world the testimony of Dr. Tagai reminds me of Christ's words "I have not seen such faith, no, not in Israel." Certainly, both believers and non-believers can learn so many valuable lessons from this enthralling book!

8 people found this helpful

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joan Dawson

5.0 out of 5 stars Order accomplished

Reviewed in France on 8 December 2016

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This book arrived within the time promised and was in good shape. The person for whom I ordered it was very pleased.

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Cliente Amazon

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book

Reviewed in Italy on 25 September 2018

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The story of a scientist at the crossing of cultures, civilizations and religions. Wonderfully written, it brings you to the “hear and now” through the very unusual eyes of a Japanese Catholic, more than anything else, of a great man.

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Jeremy Rios

5.0 out of 5 stars Sublime Biography

Reviewed in the United States on 20 October 2011

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All true readers are shaped by the books they read. (Conversely, all non-readers are similarly shaped by the books they haven't read.) Some books we read to give us information; others to enjoy. The more sublime a book becomes--whether in form or content--the more impact the book has on us; its impression is indelible. Still, of all the kinds of books we can read, few impact us personally more than biography. In biography we are confronted with the image of an other life; we are brought face to face with a portrait, the prolonged gaze into which causes us to reflect on our own lives. Hence, the best biography always prompts self-reflection. Such a book is Paul Glynn's A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai. It is a profound biographical mirror, the reflection from which challenges us to reevaluate our own lives.

The subtitle of Glynn's book tells much of the story: Nagai was a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb. As a Scientist, Nagai grew up in Japan in the first half of the 20th century where he trained to become a doctor, then studied radiology, and helped to pioneer radiological research in Nagasaki. As a convert Nagai exemplifies the observation of C.S. Lewis that "Every story of conversion is the story of a blessed defeat." Nagai, a young atheist, decided to investigate the claims of Christianity--which he viewed as a very foreign and non-Japanese religion--through the study of Nagasaki's historic Christian community and the reading of Pascal's Pensées. Over time he became compelled by the testimony of a loving God Who superintends the world, Whose power is made perfect in human weakness. Nagai is also a survivor of the Atomic Bomb, in the wake of which--already riddled with leukemia because of his radiological research--Nagai stayed in Nagasaki to rebuild, interpret, and provide healing for the citizens of his city for the last years of life. Through his public display of Christian faithfulness and patient endurance Nagai is transformed into a hero for the people of Nagasaki.

Nagai's life story is fascinating on its own. The story of his conversion gives it depth. But the atomic leveling of Nagasaki--which brought about the death of his wife and many colleagues--renders Nagai's life sublime. It is his response--patient, trusting, encouraging, and indeed deeply mourning--which sets this life above many others, making it a worthy study and example. He has suffered, yet loves God, yet remains confident in the absolute and unfailing love of God. Nagai writes, "Our lives are of great worth if we accept with good grace the situation that Providence and go on living lovingly" (238). His is no simple faith, but one rich and complex.

Nagai writes "if our lives are spent for the glory of God, then life and death are beautiful" (148). Because of this, the story of a faithful life uniquely enhances the power of biography. As we consider a life in which God has worked, profoundly, we are forced to query our own lives: Have I been faithful like Nagai? Is my faith in God secure? Have I sought to communicate the love of God to my family and coworkers as he did? Will I be able to confront suffering as he did? If my world were to crash down around me, would I respond like him? When other suffering people come to me, do I offer them the comfort and grace of God that Nagai did? No sincere reflection on these questions can bring a bad result, and so I encourage you to gaze long and searchingly into the mirror of Takashi Nagai. See who God is for this man, and ask if He might be such a God for you, too.

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Giulia Vercesi

5.0 out of 5 stars Lettura

Reviewed in Italy on 2 October 2019

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Splendido libro

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A V G

5.0 out of 5 stars inspirational and interesting

Reviewed in the United States on 3 August 2023

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This well written novel describes a Japanese man searching and finding the meaning of pain in life and ultimately it’s path to serenity. It’s a book for all ages

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Eva

5.0 out of 5 stars Very Interesting!

Reviewed in Canada on 6 October 2021

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Very good book!

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The Seldom Seen Kid

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Book

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 May 2016

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When reviewing books I prefer not to give away any real detail so as not to spoil the read for any potential buyer. Wonderfully inspiring book and one that will sit well on any bookshelf.

2 people found this helpful

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Michael Subasic

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book, with great insights.

Reviewed in Canada on 3 March 2016

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Wow! This book is a must read that will transform your understanding of service to others, dealing with suffering, and seeing the dignity in every person. Do yourself a favor and read this book.

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From other countries

Dennis Muzza

5.0 out of 5 stars Moving spiritual biography

Reviewed in the United States on 31 December 2010

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This is the uplifting story of Dr. Takashi Nagai, a brilliant Japanese scientist who lived in the first half of the 20th century, became an unlikely convert to Catholic Christianity, became a war hero in the war with China in the 1930s, survived the nuclear bombing of Nagasaki but suffering the death of his wife, university colleagues, and decimation of the Christian community in that city, and towards the end of his life, terminally ill with leukemia (contracted before the nuclear attack because of his work as a radiologist) he was dedicated to providing spiritual comfort to the people of Nagasaki and Japan, both through his writings and his example, and by the time of his death had become a much admired and revered person in Japan and the world.

The story of Nagai itself follows important parallels with that of many great saints within Christianity: somebody who is an independent spirit, perhaps a bit rebellious but also very sensitive, highly accomplished in what they do, goes through difficult times which hasten a spiritual conversion (in Nagai's case the death of his mother), after which even harder times lead to growth and strengthening of faith, culminating, or I should say blossoming, in radiance and fulfillment through service and love to their fellow human beings. But the way the story is written by author Paul Glynn, providing the reader with the full historic and geographic context, make it all the more engaging and compelling.

Unlike many of the great Christian saints who lived entirely in Christian environments, generally in pre-modern times, Nagai's story is set against the backdrop of a Japan where Christianity is very countercultural (the chapter on Nagasaki's hidden Christians, who for more than two centuries after it was banned secretely passed their faith from generation to generation, without priests or churches, is worth the price of the book by itself), especially so at a time when the country was rapidly modernizing and leaving all religion behind, and was a particularly unlikely choice for a young, agnostic scientist of Samurai descent who was a very patriotic Japanese. The accounts of the war with China, the detailed and horrifying telling of the nuclear bombing of Nagasaki, and the aftermath of the war and American occupation add even more poignancy to the story and, leaving aside the spiritual side, is worth reading just for historical interest.

But ultimately the story of Nagai is the story of the triumph of the human spirit, how we can transcend and become fulfilled in even the most difficult circumstances, and provides a far more compelling case for Christianity than any of the self-righteous screeds we get these days, as it is grounded in the living example of someone who walked the talk and became a beacon of hope for all humankind.

17 people found this helpful

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Dr J M Meegan

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 5 April 2014

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This is an amazing book which I had never heard of before is the story that really needs to be told and is recommended reading please read it

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Robert Nairn

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Read

Reviewed in Canada on 24 May 2014

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One of the best true stories I have ever read. I could not pu the book down until I finished this extraordinary story of a Japanese doctor

One person found this helpful

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Donald F. Hartung

5.0 out of 5 stars Great read.

Reviewed in the United States on 2 August 2023

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Unique insight to this transformative event that altered history in a very personal way to everyone on the planet.

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a sinner

4.0 out of 5 stars Life changing death

Reviewed in the United States on 19 April 2016

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A historical, sociological, scientific, spiritual perspective on the gravest act of man. I have found a new patron and role model as I traverse a life for others.

3 people found this helpful

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Peter Drevniok

5.0 out of 5 stars inspiring book

Reviewed in Canada on 29 December 2012

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a lovely, touching story; a book that could help people overcome all the inanities being promulgated by the media and our so-called leaders.

2 people found this helpful

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Anna Ryan

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 February 2016

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Excellent

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Eduardo Jáuregui

5.0 out of 5 stars A Story You Must Read

Reviewed in the United States on 24 December 2023

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When thinking about suffering, focusing too much on our own unfortunate experiences seems to be quite a common thing to do, not few of us perhaps recalling with certain horror a particular moment of grief, of pain, of hopelessness. Yet, and I dare to say it, I don't think most of us try to rehabilitate those experiences for all the potential good that have burst from it.

Seems crazy to try and be optimistic about those times, but, if the protagonist of this book, Takashi Nagai, can show us anything, is that good things can come from adversity. You can trust his opinion; afterall, there's few things that can compare to surviving an atomic bomb, only to lose your wife and all your possessions. After such catastrophe, no-one may have faulted Nagai in losing the joy of life. The thing is, even in such darkest hours, he continued living, a beacon of hope for the survivors of Nagasaki and its Christian community, which play a vital role in the scientist's own conversion to Catholicism before the start of World War II.

Narrated with a deep respect of Japanese culture, this biography is a must not only for the religious reader (though the spiritual insights are clear and numerous throughout the book), but also for the honest inquirer into the reality of suffering and the human condition, a reality that, as this book presents and argues for, even in its darkest moments, hope can remain. Easy recommendation from my part.

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crzymomo9

5.0 out of 5 stars Suffering is not meritless.

Reviewed in the United States on 29 January 2024

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A former atheist and Japanese doctor who ultimately found the Catholic Church and survived the bombing of Nagasaki, gives his statement of faith in spite of his intense suffering. Suffering has merit, all good things come from God, even if they come from a source that is evil, and work towards our salvation. Why does God allow bad things to happen to innocent people? You will find excellent reasons in this book..

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Joseph Gangi

5.0 out of 5 stars True stories are always the best

Reviewed in the United States on 4 January 2024

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The story of this Japanese doctor to the Catholic faith is fascinating and rewarding. I have recommended this book to many friends.

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Raymond H. Mullen

5.0 out of 5 stars A Masterpiece

Reviewed in the United States on 29 November 2015

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Once in a while, I find that I have read something so magnificent that it has a profound significance on my very soul. This is such a book.

The story of Dr. Takashi Naigai is a story of a self made man who eventually meets that still small voice that has been calling to him all of his life.

WWII brought a day of reckoning for thousands upon thousands of creatures just trying to survive the madness of war. As it has been said, "War brings out the worst in man---War brings out the best in man." This story brings real meaning to that statement.

The Japanese are a proud people. They are also deeply rooted in their culture and their religions. Dr. Nagai struggles with tradition, heritage and his inner self; his purpose in life and his duty to his countrymen as well his enemies.

He was a pioneer in the use of x-ray in the medical field. This new kind of energy would have a lasting affect on his young life. At the time, it was unknown just how much radiation a person could absorb before it became lethal. Knowing the danger, he continued on in his research as he sought to save lives by this new method of diagnosing . Already suffering from radiation exposure, he finds himself at ground zero when hell was unleashed on Nagasaki in August of 1945. He lost the love of his life that day, his wife.

His story continues as he throws himself into his work amidst horrors too terrible to even try to understand. His spiritual journey from Japanese traditions, to atheism and agnosticism to finding God through his conversion to the Catholic faith is such a testimony to the power and grace of the one true God.

Was Dr. Nagai a martyr? He certainly didn't think so, however his humble mannerisms and immeasurable faith brought many to the foot of the cross.

"A Song For Nagasaki" is a masterpiece. I am so blessed to have been able to read and review this work. I encourage you to make this a 'must read' on your list for the near future.

16 people found this helpful

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TIMOTHY OMALLEY

5.0 out of 5 stars Takashi and Midori triumph

Reviewed in the United States on 4 November 2023

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Incredible account of families with deep roots in Japan

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Andrew

5.0 out of 5 stars Overlooked Modern Saint

Reviewed in the United States on 24 March 2022

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But, why overlooked? I have no idea. It’s hard to find any of the writings that Nagai has written himself. We Americans are uncomfortable with the knowledge that we dropped an atomic bomb killing tens of thousands instantly. Do we hide his beautiful thoughts on peace, on love, and on living a joyful life in Christ despite all of the surrounding pain? We must, because very few people know of this man who is one of the most inspiring Saints I have ever read about.

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slk

5.0 out of 5 stars inspiring

Reviewed in the United States on 19 November 2022

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I was not familiar with this true story of Takashi Nagai. He lived, worked and wrote from his true essence, that connects us all. His knowing of God led him in all he wrote, his response to the Atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki, and in his own suffering. We are guided to pray.

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Lynn

5.0 out of 5 stars Heartbreaking yet hopeful

Reviewed in the United States on 5 January 2022

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This book told an unvarnished story of the tragedy of the atomic bomb explosion in Nagasaki and the aftermath in one man's extraordinary life. It was difficult to put this book down due to the author's captivating and honest descriptions. Although the story is now well known to me, I will no doubt reread this book many times. It will become my teacher so that I can better learn to live life graciously and gratefully no matter the circumstances in which I find myself.

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Nora McDougall

5.0 out of 5 stars War and Horror Bring out the Worst in Some People and the Best in Others

Reviewed in the United States on 20 June 2011

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Is it possible for a man who has seen his own countrymen do terrible things and who has been through the bombing of his home town of Nagasaki to die in peace and surrounded by honor and love? This is such a story.

The main story is about an early pioneer of radiology and his experience with the experience of living through the atomic bombing of Nagasaki. But, the book starts much earlier as a frame of reference to Dr. Nagai's story. This book is very Catholic, and traces the history of Catholicism through Japanese history, which is an interesting story in itself. Even for a non-Catholic reader, such as myself, there is so much to learn and appreciate about the strong faith of these courageous Japanese people.

Issues of war tend to polarize people, into demonizing one side and defending the other. People also tend to use acts of war to promote their own interests and political views. This book supersedes both. "He expressed grave suspicions about "angry people" in peace movements. There is a great need for peace movements, he wrote, but only if made up of people with hearts that are at peace." p. 212.

Whether you agree or disagree with Dr. Nagai's position, his life had a message that changed people for the better.

11 people found this helpful

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Carlos A. Santayana

5.0 out of 5 stars If you are not afraid of being immersed in a wondrous enrichment of your world view, then read this sweet story of a truly noble

Reviewed in the United States on 20 July 2014

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This book is the story of Takashi Nagai, an atheist scientist who converted to Catholicism and became a household name in Japan. Considered a "saint" by both religious and secular Japanese, he has become an icon of goodness and holiness in their culture to many. I have found the life of this Japanese physician who survived and later died from injuries at Nagasaki, oddly uplifting. It extols the exquisite beauty of Japanese traditional culture while documenting his journey into christian mysticism and traditional Catholicism. As a dyed in the wool western Catholic of the old school, I have, at this late stage of my life, found myself seeing the divine inspiration that God generously endowed to so many cultures. As I read the book, I have to put it down to reflect on so many things; from an atheists critical reading of Pascal to fruitlessly resisting the urge to try my hand at Haiku. Love the book. If you are not afraid of being immersed in a wondrous enrichment of your world view, then read this sweet story of a truly noble soul.

5 people found this helpful

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Peggy R.

5.0 out of 5 stars Tragedy is a gift

Reviewed in the United States on 10 August 2017

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Rarely have I been so affected by a book. This one is profound in so many ways! It is not just a biography, it is the journey of a soul from the darkness to the Light, who was able to make meaning of the tragedies in his life, including his experience as a survivor of the bomb dropped on Nagasaki.

He spoke of that meaning to all the survivors of the atomic bombs in Japan, and many Japanese, Catholic, Christian, or non-Christian, came to understand that meaning and venerate the deeply spiritual, everyday man who explained it to them.

I have been greatly helped by applying these insights to my own life, and coming to see that my perception of tragedy, especially in my own life, was off-kilter. They were gifts from God, who used them to change me in many ways, that is a still ongoing process.

3 people found this helpful

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Ashton Z

5.0 out of 5 stars Nagasaki's light

Reviewed in the United States on 27 July 2014

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This book has touched my heart in a way that no other book has ever done before. I read "The bells of Nagasaki", before this, so I had some information on Nagai prior to reading. The book goes into extreme detail about his marriage and children. The love this man had for others around him cannot be described with words. This was a man that was well educated, a metacognitive thinker, and convert. I just finished my book with tears in my eyes. This man's final days were both sad and beautiful at the same time. You need to read this book if you are a Christian, a Japanophile, or are studying religion/philosophy. Thanks to this book, I want to go to Nagasaki so badly now.

BE WARNED:

Like the "The bells of Nagasaki", there are some very depressing, graphic descriptions in this book when they talk about the Atomic Bombing. Once you have started reading the book, you need to continue reading, or you can become depressed.

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W. L. Brown

5.0 out of 5 stars A Saintly Convert In Old Nagasaki

Reviewed in the United States on 24 June 2013

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This book about Takashi Nagai is a moving true story about a physician-scientist who converted to Catholicism in pre-war Nagasaki and who lived through the Atomic Bombing of that city in August, 1945. One of the great ironies of the War in the Pacific was the fact that the largest Christian community in Japan, a non-Christian nation, lived in Nagasaki. The community dated back several hundred years to the days of St. Francis Zavier, the Jesuit missionary-apostle to the Far East. And, that community was almost totally destroyed by the 2nd atomic bomb that was dropped on Japan. Nagasaki was a secondary target city that was chosen due to bad weather over the primary target. However, if anything, Nagai's faith was only strengthened by the ordeal. He became a Christian mystic who was not only an inspiration to other Christians, but to non-Christians alike from the emperor on down. This is a little known story about this saintly Catholic convert is very much worth reading and I highly recommend it.

6 people found this helpful

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MMC

5.0 out of 5 stars An inspiration

Reviewed in the United States on 17 August 2022

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One of the most moving books I have ever read!!! A must- read for anyone who wants a spiritual uplift, plus being a beautiful love story, both of God and human nature. Hopefully,Takashi Nagai will be canonized some day.

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Jeffery F

5.0 out of 5 stars I keep buying this book and sharing it

Reviewed in the United States on 8 February 2022

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The first time I read this book, I appreciated the historical and cultural background it provided of Japan. After 3 more readings, my admiration of Japan has continued to grow. I honor this man whose life journey towards trust, love and humility is an inspiration as well as a sign of hope for humanity.

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Barbara S. Mustain

5.0 out of 5 stars Finding Peace and Hope amidst the Ashes

Reviewed in the United States on 5 April 2022

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A beautiful and inspiring read. Much more than just a biography, it weaves centuries of Japanese culture, history, poetry and religion seamlessly together. The sufferings of centuries of persecuted Christians in Nagasaki are interwoven with one modern man's search for meaning amid the horrors of the twentieth

century.

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Alco Canfield

5.0 out of 5 stars Riveting and inspiring

Reviewed in the United States on 28 July 2021

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Takashi Nagai's selfless dedication was very moving. It was wonderful to see how a life is transformed. I also learned a lot about the history of Nagasaki and I didn't know much about that at all. I knew it was a Catholic community but that's all. I hope to visit someday. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to find out about the greatness of a human spirit.

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StarLady

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely Compelling...

Reviewed in the United States on 28 February 2015

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This book is riveting, one that, once you begin, you cannot stop until you finish. The story of Takashi Nagai is amazing and inspirational, overcoming so many burdens and trials even just to arrive at "mere" belief. He learned what love was and used his gifts and talents for the glory of God, even in the face of pure sadness. I also appreciated that the book describes some history of Christianity in Japan, a topic that I did not know much about. The events of August 9, 1945 are made even more tragic when you realize that not only was there an incredible loss of innocent human life, but the atomic bomb struck at the heart of Catholicism in a country where Christianity has always struggled to gain a foothold. As a Catholic myself, it wrenched my heart to read of the sufferings of so many, but Nagai's story is one of wisdom and hope.

9 people found this helpful

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Mary Ellen Rose

5.0 out of 5 stars very moving

Reviewed in the United States on 1 August 2022

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This book may be one that has changed my life. I have health issues and lost a son five years ago. This book teaches me to bear my minor sufferings and to seek God‘s wisdom.

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Eric R

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent

Reviewed in the United States on 3 December 2019

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I seriously doubt that anyone could read this book and not be moved and edified in a deep way. It’s well written, meaning, it flows nicely, with little excess verbiage, in the form of a bonafide drama. The reader stands to learn valuable aspects of Japanese history and culture. The reader also finds it close to impossible not to fall in love with Doctor Nagai. In many ways he was as inspirational to twentieth-century Japanese as Gandhi was to the Indians, and, like the latter, a transcendent figure for the human race.

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Brendan

5.0 out of 5 stars Christian Japan

Reviewed in the United States on 2 August 2022

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The beautiful story of a Japanese Catholic Christian and medical doctor, living out his faith in the midst of the 1945 post-atomic disaster. I couldn't put it down.

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Ignatius of Antioch

5.0 out of 5 stars A Great Book for Those Who are Suffering

Reviewed in the United States on 23 August 2011

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This book is an inspiring tale of a man who searches for, and ultimately finds, truth. The author does a wonderful job of relating the journey of Nagai, with the history of Christianity in Japan. The two stories parallel one another and merge into one on the day of the bombing of Nagasaki. Beautifully written, this book is one of the few books that my wife and I both rate among our all time favorites.

I read a song for Nagasaki at a point of great suffering in my own life. At the time it felt as though this book was made for me. This is not to say that one has to be suffering in order to get value out of the book. Quite the contrary, this true story is a vision of a man who, though he suffered much, was never swallowed by the suffering.

Beautiful and timeless, I cannot wait to read this book all over again.

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D. Michael Sanford

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautifully Written about a Beautiful Person.

Reviewed in the United States on 16 August 2017

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I’ve had this on my Kindle for some time and decided to start this wonderful book and finished it in three days. It is a story of a mystic, lover, and a believer in the Cross of Jesus Christ. I cannot recommend this book, story, love story enough; it will make you tear and laugh and feel wonderful after you read it. From Atheism, materialism, to complete love for Jesus in one short life despite dying from leukemia and radiation poisoning, A Song For Nagasaki will leave you with a memory of a perfect life during a miserable point in Japanese history. Please read this book.

2 people found this helpful

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Dss

5.0 out of 5 stars Must read

Reviewed in the United States on 23 April 2022

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For anyone who is struggling with the meaning of suffering, this book will foster a deeper understanding of suffering through the eyes of God's Providential Goodness.

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Jude

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring story that helped me to understand the mystery of suffering after a difficult period

Reviewed in the United States on 16 July 2021

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This is a wonderful book for those who like Japanese History, philosophical journeys, heroic stories, or who want to understand some truths of the Catholic faith more deeply through the example of a heroic witness. I have recommended it to many people since finishing it.

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Heidi

5.0 out of 5 stars Very moving

Reviewed in the United States on 29 March 2022

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I so much admire this man as he faced the challenges of his life. Simplicity, poverty and humility - so wonderful.

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mtbube

5.0 out of 5 stars Very moving story

Reviewed in the United States on 28 July 2012

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I like conversion stories and this is one. What sets it aside from others is that it is the conversion of an atheist who refused to give into bitterness after the Nagasaki A-bomb was dropped when it is more likely that one will question the existence of a loving God. It is the story of an atheist raised by atheists in an essentially atheistic country at a time when atheism was simply taken for granted. It is not saccharine or filled with mystical visions of flitting angels. It is plainly stated how he came to be a believer through his own experiences and through his reading of Pascal's Pensees. It is in short a biography of a conversion of a thinking person for thinking people. I intend to read it again.

3 people found this helpful

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Cryolitterae

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful

Reviewed in the United States on 25 December 2021

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The book introduced me not only to a saint, but also to the culture of pre and post world war II japan

One person found this helpful

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Michael Hoffman

5.0 out of 5 stars A hymn to the spirit of Japan and one of her greatest modern saints

Reviewed in the United States on 5 January 2010

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The life of Takashi Nagai embodies a paradox: a convert from the traditional religion of Japan to Catholicism, he nevertheless embodied the virtues of the Japanese character - virtues which were expressed through his faith in Christ. This book will appeal to many diverse persons: atheists and agnostics struggling for truth, medical students and physicians, Catholics and missionaries, and students of modern Japanese history and President Truman's criminal atomic bomb holocaust against the Christian city of Nagasaki. But it is primarily the story of a human being whose hard work, self-sacrifice and dedication, along with early weaknesses and failure that he overcame through Christ, offers us a candle in the darkness. This is a fascinating and heart-warming tale of love in the face of harrowing adversity. No one who reads "A Song for Nagasaki" will go away unrewarded.

22 people found this helpful

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Kindle Customer

5.0 out of 5 stars Dr. Takashi Nagai: A Prophet for Our Time

Reviewed in the United States on 4 September 2016

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How does one survive an event as tragic and destructive as an atom bomb with faith in God, and hope for the future intact? Dr. Takashi Nagai faced those challenges and emerged as a light to help Japan recover from the war, and a guide helping the people of Nagasaki to rebuild their lives. His amazing story and insights into the events of which he was a part make him a prophet for our time. His insights and the message of his life are timely and uplifting as we, too, face an uncertain future.

2 people found this helpful

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Brent in Texas

5.0 out of 5 stars Nagasaki- a different view

Reviewed in the United States on 28 June 2019

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This book tells the incredible story of Dr Ngai who became a Christian and survived the Atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki and how he saw the implications for his life and others. A most remarkable story of a very sad part of history. America dropped an atomic bomb on the area that had the largest amount of Christians in Japan.

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The_Sandstress

5.0 out of 5 stars What a great book!

Reviewed in the United States on 7 May 2016

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I found that this book was not only encouraging, but educational,too. I learned a lot about the "way" of the Japanese. My Japanese grandmother was a Christian and I had no clue about the persecution of the Japanese Christians. My grandfather, too was a teacher, who served in Burma like Nagai. I remember hearing stories similar to Nagai's . My mom was about 7 when the bomb was dropped - she remembers the changes after the surrender. This book really appealed to me based on my Japanese heritage and my faith in Jesus Christ.

3 people found this helpful

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Lara

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful & Inspiring

Reviewed in the United States on 5 June 2019

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I ordered this book as a book club selection. I was surprised once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down! Nagai's life after he converted was a prayer. He strongly, positively influenced the reaction of the survivors in the city of Nagasaki after the devastating A-Bomb detonated. The story of his life & death are extremely inspiring!

One person found this helpful

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Caroline Gill

5.0 out of 5 stars Story about a saintly man without being preachy.

Reviewed in the United States on 3 August 2022

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Enlightenment.

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Vincent

5.0 out of 5 stars さようなら ~ SAYŌNARA

Reviewed in the United States on 17 October 2020

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The book’s last sentence: He condensed his advice for travelers in his dying words: “Inotte kudasai. Pray, please pray.”

“Prayer is our best weapon” - per Saint Pius of Pietrelcina (aka Padre Pio).

One person found this helpful

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Christopher Jantzen

5.0 out of 5 stars This book is worth the time

Reviewed in the United States on 20 March 2013

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I came upon this book by mistake because I read Embracing Defeat where the author introduced me to Takashi Nagai. I was curious to learn more about who Nagai was and came upon this book. It was a fast read because though it's a biography, the book has a quick pace and has a good mix of heart warming and breaking moments. Parts will make you laugh, others will make you cry but by the end you will be convinced that no one has lived quite the life as Nagai did. Take the risk, you won't regret it.

4 people found this helpful

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J. E. Whipple

5.0 out of 5 stars A heroic victim of the atomic bomb.

Reviewed in the United States on 25 September 2017

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An excellent biography. It gives the salient facts of Dr. Nagai's life, but beyond that, it shows how it was possible for him to become a beacon of hope for the traumatized Japanese nation in the wake of World War II. His courage and perseverance in the face of personal suffering can serve as an example for all, as well as an object for admiration.

2 people found this helpful

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Amazon Customer

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful, poetic, and fiercely heroic.

Reviewed in the United States on 15 May 2019

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Beautifully written , amazing story, wonderful, real characters and real heroes. I learned so much about the beautiful and rich Japanese culture and history. I was surprised to learn the fascinating history of Christianity in Nagasaki and how Nagai was introduced to this foreign truth.

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Valentine Veloo

5.0 out of 5 stars absolutely reviting.

Reviewed in the United States on 17 February 2020

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what a fascinating heroic life lived most humbly and giving meaning to suffering and not giving in to despair. Truly a Catholic Saint and one whose life should be held up to study and follow.

One person found this helpful

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Grandpa

5.0 out of 5 stars Placing Faith within suffering to find peace

Reviewed in the United States on 3 October 2019

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A treasure of a book about a holy man who found God within his culture, rationality, and his heart during a cataclysmic time! Knew nothing about this time and culture before; on my second read to absorb the truths.

One person found this helpful

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Debra Brunsberg

5.0 out of 5 stars A must read!

Reviewed in the United States on 12 September 2015

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This is one of the most beautifully written stories I have ever read. I believe the man featured in this true story is a Saint. His living through the bombing of Nagasaki and his reaction to all that befalls him is a wonder. Fr. Glynn writes in a manner that will touch your heart in so many ways. I have read this book twice and have given it as a gift. I highly recommemend this book.

2 people found this helpful

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Elaine D. Johnson

5.0 out of 5 stars This is a beautiful and most excellent book that shows the redeeming power ...

Reviewed in the United States on 11 August 2016

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This is a beautiful and most excellent book that shows the redeeming power of Christ in the midst of sin, war and hatred. It also shows the real "Catholicity" of the Catholic Faith in the midst of the Orient. The terrible tragedy of the bombing of Nagasaki is transfigured as a holocaust, an expiation, for the sins and hatred of men through the Faith of the Christians of Nagasaki.

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The life and faith journey of Takashi Nagai, Sunday 18th June, Dublin

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The life and faith journey of Takashi Nagai, Sunday 18th June, Dublin

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Meeting on the life and faith journey of Takashi Nagai - Sunday 18th June in Donnybrook parish center, Dublin. A video-call with Gabriele Di Comite who is the President of the Catholic Association "Friends of Takashi and Midori Nagai" which promotes their cause for beatification.

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A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb : Glynn, Fr Paul: Amazon.com.au: Books

A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb : Glynn, Fr Paul: Amazon.com.au: Books




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A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb Paperback – 28 October 2009
by Fr Paul Glynn (Author)
4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars 461 ratings





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A Song for Nagasaki tells the moving story of this extraordinary man, beginning with his boyhood and the heroic tales and stoic virtues of his family's Shinto religion. It reveals the inspiring story of Nagai's remarkable spiritual journey from Shintoism to atheism to Catholicism. Mixed with interesting details about Japanese history and culture, the biography traces Nagai's spiritual quest as he studied medicine at Nagasaki University, served as a medic with the Japanese army during its occupation of Manchuria, and returned to Nagasaki to dedicate himself to the science of radiology. The historic Catholic district of the city, where Nagai became a Catholic and began a family, was ground zero for the atomic bomb.







From other countries
Patricia Flores
5.0 out of 5 stars When you rebuild the world from total destruction
Reviewed in Canada on 23 January 2021
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This a wonderful story on how to have faith, hope, and charity against all the odds, in the worst of circumstances. Dr. Nagai is a moral giant. The book is a one-sitting read; I couldn’t stop reading until finished. A very important point that I found interesting is the connection between faith and science that Dr. Nagai established all throughout his life, even before his conversion. Only one detail that puzzled me: how could the author state that Beethoven and Mozart were played in a pre-Vatican 2 Catholic Mass.
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nagasaki
5.0 out of 5 stars a song for nagasaki
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 March 2012
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this is the unforgetable story of a truly great man. Despite living through unimaginable horrors of many kinds, he never ceases to be so brave, so resourceful, so concerned for the welfare of others, so full of hope for the future, so profound in spirit. The background of his Japanese culture moulds so perfectly with his devout Catholic faith, that as a Christian from the western world the testimony of Dr. Tagai reminds me of Christ's words "I have not seen such faith, no, not in Israel." Certainly, both believers and non-believers can learn so many valuable lessons from this enthralling book!
8 people found this helpful
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joan Dawson
5.0 out of 5 stars Order accomplished
Reviewed in France on 8 December 2016
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This book arrived within the time promised and was in good shape. The person for whom I ordered it was very pleased.
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Cliente Amazon
5.0 out of 5 stars Great book
Reviewed in Italy on 25 September 2018
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The story of a scientist at the crossing of cultures, civilizations and religions. Wonderfully written, it brings you to the “hear and now” through the very unusual eyes of a Japanese Catholic, more than anything else, of a great man.
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Jeremy Rios
5.0 out of 5 stars Sublime Biography
Reviewed in the United States on 20 October 2011
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All true readers are shaped by the books they read. (Conversely, all non-readers are similarly shaped by the books they haven't read.) Some books we read to give us information; others to enjoy. The more sublime a book becomes--whether in form or content--the more impact the book has on us; its impression is indelible. Still, of all the kinds of books we can read, few impact us personally more than biography. In biography we are confronted with the image of an other life; we are brought face to face with a portrait, the prolonged gaze into which causes us to reflect on our own lives. Hence, the best biography always prompts self-reflection. Such a book is Paul Glynn's A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai. It is a profound biographical mirror, the reflection from which challenges us to reevaluate our own lives.


The subtitle of Glynn's book tells much of the story: Nagai was a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb. As a Scientist, Nagai grew up in Japan in the first half of the 20th century where he trained to become a doctor, then studied radiology, and helped to pioneer radiological research in Nagasaki. As a convert Nagai exemplifies the observation of C.S. Lewis that "Every story of conversion is the story of a blessed defeat." Nagai, a young atheist, decided to investigate the claims of Christianity--which he viewed as a very foreign and non-Japanese religion--through the study of Nagasaki's historic Christian community and the reading of Pascal's Pensées. Over time he became compelled by the testimony of a loving God Who superintends the world, Whose power is made perfect in human weakness. Nagai is also a survivor of the Atomic Bomb, in the wake of which--already riddled with leukemia because of his radiological research--Nagai stayed in Nagasaki to rebuild, interpret, and provide healing for the citizens of his city for the last years of life. Through his public display of Christian faithfulness and patient endurance Nagai is transformed into a hero for the people of Nagasaki.


Nagai's life story is fascinating on its own. The story of his conversion gives it depth. But the atomic leveling of Nagasaki--which brought about the death of his wife and many colleagues--renders Nagai's life sublime. It is his response--patient, trusting, encouraging, and indeed deeply mourning--which sets this life above many others, making it a worthy study and example. He has suffered, yet loves God, yet remains confident in the absolute and unfailing love of God. Nagai writes, "Our lives are of great worth if we accept with good grace the situation that Providence and go on living lovingly" (238). His is no simple faith, but one rich and complex.


Nagai writes "if our lives are spent for the glory of God, then life and death are beautiful" (148). Because of this, the story of a faithful life uniquely enhances the power of biography. As we consider a life in which God has worked, profoundly, we are forced to query our own lives: Have I been faithful like Nagai? Is my faith in God secure? Have I sought to communicate the love of God to my family and coworkers as he did? Will I be able to confront suffering as he did? If my world were to crash down around me, would I respond like him? When other suffering people come to me, do I offer them the comfort and grace of God that Nagai did? No sincere reflection on these questions can bring a bad result, and so I encourage you to gaze long and searchingly into the mirror of Takashi Nagai. See who God is for this man, and ask if He might be such a God for you, too.
14 people found this helpful
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Giulia Vercesi
5.0 out of 5 stars Lettura
Reviewed in Italy on 2 October 2019
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Splendido libro
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A V G
5.0 out of 5 stars inspirational and interesting
Reviewed in the United States on 3 August 2023
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This well written novel describes a Japanese man searching and finding the meaning of pain in life and ultimately it’s path to serenity. It’s a book for all ages
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Eva
5.0 out of 5 stars Very Interesting!
Reviewed in Canada on 6 October 2021
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Very good book!
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The Seldom Seen Kid
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 May 2016
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When reviewing books I prefer not to give away any real detail so as not to spoil the read for any potential buyer. Wonderfully inspiring book and one that will sit well on any bookshelf.
2 people found this helpful
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Michael Subasic
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book, with great insights.
Reviewed in Canada on 3 March 2016
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Wow! This book is a must read that will transform your understanding of service to others, dealing with suffering, and seeing the dignity in every person. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
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나가이 다카시 박사를 찾아서 - 월간 한국인

나가이 다카시 박사를 찾아서 - 월간 한국인

나가이 다카시 박사를 찾아서
강소이 (시인, 여행작가) | koreain@





승인 2018.09.05 

나가이 다카시 박사를 찾아서



강 소이(시인, 여행작가)


지난 1월 나가사키 원폭기념관을 방문했을 때의 느낌은 참혹했다.

원자폭탄 팻맨이 나가사키에 투하되어 나가사키가 잿더미로 변하고 폐허가 되었다. 일본은 지구 유일의 피폭 국가이다. 나가사키‘원폭 자료관에는 재로 변한 건물과 파괴된 철로, 우라카미 성당, 불에 녹아버린 묵주알, 성모상, 목이 날아간 성인상(聖人像), 불에 타버린 시신 더미 등……. 처참한 참상들을 찍은 사진들이 즐비했다. 전시물들을 둘러보면서 마음이 몹시 냉정해지는 걸 느낄 수 있었다. 원자폭탄의 파괴력이 얼마나 대단한 것인지를 확인할 수 있었고, 반일 감정이 가득한 눈으로 봐도‘같은 인간에 대한 측은한 마음’이 드는 곳이었다. 일본은 그 자료관을 통해서 세계만방에 자신들이 당한 피해를 호소하는 것 같은 느낌이 강하게 들었다. 원폭이 나가사키에 투하되게 된 과정이나 이유, 반성 등은 전혀 읽혀지지 않는 곳이었다. 씁쓸한 기분과 원폭의 공포를 생각하면서 걸음을 옮기던 중에 유리벽 속에 걸린 사진 한 장 앞에서 나는 한참을 멈춰 서 있었다.







중년의 남자가 자리에 누워 있다. 이불을 덮은 채……. 그는 누운 채 종이에 무엇인가를 쓰고 있다. 공중에 종이가 힘을 받지 못해서인지, 딱딱한 판자로 종이를 받쳐 놓고 두 팔을 공중으로 뻗은 채 글을 쓰고 있는 광경의 사진이었다. 일본어에 까막눈인 나는 일본어 밑에 쓰여 있는 영어 해설을 읽고 난 뒤 그게 무엇을 하는 행동인지 알 수 있었다.
‘나가이 다카시’그는 누구일까? 누운 상태로 글을 써서 14권의 저서를 남겼다는 설명 앞에서 마음이 뜨거워진다.
옆에 동행한 친구에게 나는 이렇게 말했다. “작가 정신이 바로 저런 거야” 책상에 앉지 못하는 상황 속에서도 글을 써서 14권의 저서를 남기는 불굴의 의지. 참 놀랍다.” 원폭 기념관에서 보았던 모든 전시물들 중에 내게 가장 강한 인상을 준 게 나가이 다카시 박사의 집필 자세였다. “와, 대단하다. 어떻게 저렇게......?”

귀국하여 그에 대한 궁금증을 풀기 위해 그에 대해 공부를 해보니, 그는 작가가 아니었다. 나가사키 의과대학에서 방사선학을 전공한 의대 교수였으며 의사였다. 그는 조용한 성격의 말수가 적은 사람이었다. 조용히 연구에 몰두하는 의학자였다. ‘일본 방사능 의학의 개척자’로 인정받을 정도로 연구에 몰입하다가 백혈병에 걸릴 정도의 열정을 가진 일본의 엘리트 지성인이었다. 자신의 몸을 돌보지 않고 방사선 위험 수칙을 지키지 못한 채 무리한 나머지 백혈병에 걸린 의학인 이었다. 나가사키에 원폭이 투하 되던 날, 그는 그의 연구실에서 X-ray 필름을 선별하다가 원폭을 맞아 오른쪽 두부 동맥이 절단되는 부상을 입고 피투성이로 쓰러진다. 목숨을 잃지는 않았지만, 이미 만성 골수성 백혈병에다 원자병까지 얻게 된 것이다.
그가 원폭을 맞은 날에도 찾아오는 환자들을 진료하는 데 최선을 다한다. 원폭 후, 3일 만에 귀가해 보니 아내는 재로 변해있었다. 아내의 손목에 묵주도 열에 녹은 채……. 그는 타다 남은 양동이에 아내의 뼈를 추려 담아 묻어주면서 오열한다. 그러나 개인적인 슬픔에 젖어 있을 틈도 없이 잿더미 속에서 살아남은 피폭자들을 치료해야했다. 그는 남은 의료진들과 구호활동을 벌였던 보고서를 책으로 묶어 미국 국무성에 제출했다. 처참했던 사고 현장을 가감 없이 생생하게 기록한 보고서였다. 그의 ‘활동보고서’ 원고를 검열했던 미국 국무성은 상상을 초월한 원폭의 피해 상(象)에 경악했고, 그 책의 출판을 금지시켰다. 그날 나가사키에서 일어난 일을 아무도 모르길 바랐기 때문일 것이다. 그러나 그의 활동 보고서는‘나가사키의 종(鍾)’이라는 제목으로 히비야 출판사를 통해 출간되었고 일본인들의 심금을 울리며 베스트셀러가 되기도 했다.

그는 의료진들과 피폭자들을 구호하는 일을 하다가 나가사키 역에서 결국 쓰려졌고 다시는 일어나지 못하고 자리보전을 하게 된다. 백혈병과 원자병이 그를 자리에 눕게 했던 것이다. 그는 병마와 싸우며 병이 나아지길 기도하기에도 여념이 없었을 텐데, 그는 자신의 병 치료 보다 글로 남기는 일에 더 전념하여 5년 반이라는 짧은 기간 동안 14권의 저서를 낸다. 일 년에 평균 2~3권씩은 책을 낸 셈이다. 자신이 시한부 생명이라는 것을 모르지 않을 의사의 선택이었다.
환자들을 치료하면서 자신이 직접 목격하고 겪었던 참상을 글로 남겨야 한다는 사명감. 지성인으로서의 고결한 사명을 뛰어넘는 그 무엇 - 원자폭탄에 대한 일류 최초의 기록이었다. 글의 주제는 전쟁을 반대한다는 것과 원자폭탄의 참혹성을 알림으로써 다시는 인류에게 원폭의 피해가 없기를 바란다는 것이었다. 평화 사상이다. 그는 쓰러지기 전 우라카미 성당 근처에 1평짜리 움막을 짓고 그곳에서 집필을 시작했다.



<나가이 다카시 박사 기념관과 여기당>





이런 것들을 한국에서 모두 미리 공부를 하면서, 나가사키 여행을 다시 가야하는 이유가 하나 더 생겼었다. 그의 기념관과 그의 처소였던 여기당(如己堂)을 꼭 찾아가야겠다는 생각이었다. 나가사키 평화 공원에서 우라카미 성당 쪽으로 쭉 따라 올라가면 된다는 것을 알고 갔음에도 어느 쪽으로 가야할지 길을 찾을 수 없었다. 평화공원엔 여전히 바람이 심하여 빗살이 우산 속까지 들이 치고 있었다. 지나가는 일본인에게 물으니 자신은 모른다고 하며 가버린다. 우리가 구글(goole) 지도를 검색하며 발을 구르고 있을 때, 가버렸던 일본인이 다시 다가 오더니 “이쪽으로 올라가다가 신호등을 하나 건너면 나올 거다”라고 일러주었다. 일본 여행을 갈 때마다 느끼는 것이지만, 일본인에게 길을 물으면 그들은 하던 일을 중단하고 최선을 다해서 길 찾기를 도와준다. 얼마만큼을 함께 걸어주고 목적지가 눈에 보이면 “바로 저기다”라고 일러주고 자신이 가던 길을 간다. 그들의 친절을 볼 때마다 고마운 마음과 남을 배려하는 그들의 마음 씀씀이에 놀라곤 한다.

그 일본인이 일러준 대로 7분쯤 걸은 것 같다. 걷다보니 속이 쓰려온다. 오후 5시가 다 되어 가는데 아직 점심을 먹지 못했으니 당연하리라. 그러나 어디에 들어가 식사를 할 시간이 없다. 기념관이 5시만 되면 문을 닫을 것 같다는 생각이 강하게 들었기 때문이다. 문 닫기 전에 그곳을 찾아가야하는 거였다. 뛰다시피 하여 헐레벌떡 기념관을 찾아 들어갔다. 아직 문을 닫지 않았다. 다행이었다. 기념관 안내 데스크에 도착하니 헉헉 거리는 우리가 안쓰러웠는지 따뜻한 물을 권하다. 문 닫기 15분 전이었다. 우리는 한국에서 비행기를 타고 왔으며, 나가이 다카시 박사 기념관을 보고 싶어서 헐레벌떡 물어물어 찾아왔노라고 전했다. 안내하는 이들은 “찾아주어 고맙다”는 말을 반복하며, 숨도 돌릴 겸 우선 영상부터 보라고 한다. “한국어로 된 영상을 아직 만들지 못해서 미안하다. 영어로 만들었는데 보는 게 어떻겠냐?”고 머리를 조아리며 미안해하는 그들의 태도에 사뭇 고단함이 풀리는 것 같다. 우리는 딱딱한 나무 의자에 앉아서 5분짜리 영상을 보았다. 우리는 “한 번 더 보고 싶다”고 청하여 2번이나 반복해서 그 영상을 보았다. 나가이 다카시의 일생과 업적을 간단히 소개하는 영상이었다. 병상에 누워서 글을 썼던 그의 열정에 강하게 매료되었다. 점심을 먹지 않아 속이 쓰린 것도 참아가며 우리는 기념관을 찬찬히 둘러보았다. 우리가 기념관을 둘러보고 문을 나설 때까지 일본인 안내인 2명은 조용히 기다려 주었다. 기념관에 머무른 시간이 1시간이 넘었던 것 같다. 그들의 퇴근 시간을 너무 늦춰버린 것 같아서 미안한 마음이 든다. 그러나 그들은 아무 불평도 하지 않았고 “고맙다”는 말을 반복했다. 우리가 기념관을 나오자 그들이 따라 나오면서 기념관 문을 잠갔다. 우리는 서둘러서 음식점을 찾고 싶었으나, 기념관 왼편에 있는 작은 집 하나를 가리키며, “매우 유명한 집이니 보고 가면 좋겠다.”고 한다. 검색을 통해서 미리 사진으로 보았던 ‘뇨코도’(여기당)였다. 다다미 2장이 깔린 1평짜리 움막이라고 했는데, 목조 건물에 일본식 기와가 얹어진 낡은 집이었다. 유리문 안을 들여다보니, 한 사람 정도 누울 수 있는 공간이다. 벽에는 묵주와 나가이 다카시 박사의 생전의 모습인 듯 한 사진이 걸려있다. 성모상과 십자가도 보인다.

대학 시절 시체 해부를 수없이 하면서 유물론에 빠졌던 그에게 모친의 죽음은 영혼과 사후 세계를 생각하게 했다. 그가 하숙집 주인의 딸(미도리)과 결혼을 한 것이 그를 가톨릭 신앙의 세계로 들어서게 했다. 1933년 군의관으로 만주사변에 종군 후 귀환한 후의 일이었다. 전쟁터에서 죽어가는 군인들을 보면서 죽음에 대한 사유와 사후 세계를 생각했는지도 모른다. 어쨌든 그는 미도리와의 결혼 후, 아내의 권유로 영세를 받고 신실한 신자가 된다. 가톨릭에서는 낙태를 큰 죄로 본다. 그런 가톨릭 사상이 의사인 그에게 강하게 영향을 주었을 것으로 짐작된다. 해서 그는 원폭으로 인한 나가사키의 비극을 낱낱이 목숨을 다해 글로 고발했는지도 모르겠다. 인간의 생명, 건강, 인체를 연구하는 히포크라테스 정신을 가진 의사였기에 그의 눈은 참상에 대해 침묵할 수 없었는지도 모르겠다. 그가 백혈병, 원자병과 싸우면서 남긴 14권의 저서는 나가사키 원폭의 비애를 전 세계에 알리는 계기가 되었다고 해도 과언이 아닐 것이다. 반일 감정을 갖고 있는 이들에게는 그것이 그리 달가운 일이 아닐지 모른다. 하지만, 나는 글을 쓰는 작가의 한 사람으로서 그의 저작 활동에 대해 감명을 받지 않을 수 없었다.



<나가이 다카시> 기념관에서




우리 한국인들에겐 그의 공적(公賊)이 불편한 진실인지는 모르지만, 그의 저서에 일관되어 흐르는 주제는 “전쟁에 반대한다.”는 것이었고, “핵무기에 반대한다.”는 것이다. 핵이 얼마나 무서운 것인지를 그는 글을 통해서, 실천을 통해서 간절하게 절규하고 있다. 원폭을 맞아 원자병에 걸린 자신의 몸이 죽음으로 치닫고 있는 것을 묵도하며, 자신의 몸이 어떻게 변해가고 있는 것을 모두 기록했다. 의사의 사명이기도 했을지도 모른다. 14권의 책들이 일본인들에게 전파되어 가면서 들어온 모든 인세를 나가사키 재건에 써달라고 市에 기증하는 그였다. 그의 시신을 나가사키 의대 병원에 기증하며 “원자병으로 죽은 사람의 인체가 어떠한지 연구하는 데 활용하라”고 하는 유언에도 감동하지 않을 수 없다. 우리를 침략했던 일본 국적을 가진 일본인이지만, 나는 그의 국적을 떠나 한 사람의 의사-한 사람의 저술가로 그를 존경한다. 몹시도 불우한 환경과 상황 속에서도 글을 써서 남기고자 했던 그의 정신 앞에 고개가 숙여진다. 책상에 앉아 편하게 컴퓨터 자판을 두드려가면서 글을 쓰는 요즘의 우리 작가들. 편안하고 안락한 환경 속에서도 창작에 게으른 우리들이다. 저서 한 권 내는 것도 망설이며 계산기를 두드린다. 잿더미가 된 나가사키 폐허 속에서도 글을 쓰고 저서를 남긴 나가이 다카시 박사에게 참 부끄러운 마음이 든다.

그날, 그의 기념관에서 나와 음식점을 찾지 못했다. 10분 정도를 걸어도 평화 공원 주변에는 아무 것도 없었다. 저녁이 되자 비가 와서 그런지 오실 오실 한기가 느껴진다. 다리도 후들거린다. 목도 아프다. 결국 편의점에서 어묵을 한 개씩 샀다. 간단하게 속을 달래고 따듯한 국물이라도 마시고 싶은 간절함. 그러나 그곳엔 테이블 하나 없다. 서서 먹을 수 있는 시설조차……. 우리는 추녀 밑에서 비를 피하며 길에 서서 어묵을 먹었다. 이국 땅, 여행길에서나 체험할 수 있는 걸인이 된 듯 한 느낌. 그날 어묵을 먹으면서도 내 머리를 가득 채운 것은 그의 사진이었다. 누워서 글을 쓰는 모습. 그 모습과 목숨을 바쳐가며 강조하고 있는 강렬한 메시지.

"반전과 반핵”은 인류 모두가 동의하는 게 아닐까? 전쟁 없는 평화로운 세상, 핵무기의 비극이 더 이상 반복되지 않는 평화 위에 평화 - 그것은 모든 인류가 원하는 간절함일 것이다. 그건 원폭을 맞은 일본인 한 사람만의 주장은 아닐 것이다.

여기당(如己堂)의 주인이 세상을 떠났을 때 그의 영결식에 2만 여명의 추모객이 모였다. 나가사키의 모든 성당과 교회, 사찰에서 그의 영결 시각에 동시에 종이 울렸다. “뎅 뎅 뎅~~~” 나가사키 시장의 지시도 있었겠지만, 종교를 떠나 일본인들은 여기당의 주인에게 존경을 모은 것이다. 나도 여기(如己)에 공감한다.
“이웃을 네 몸과 같이 사랑하라”
반전과 반핵-평화 위에 평화가 이어지길……

알라딘: 영원한 것을 나가이 다카시

• 알라딘: 영원한 것을
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  영원한 것을 
  나가이 다카시 (지은이), 이승우 (옮긴이) 바오로딸 2010-09-30
  
  
  
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