John Luther Long
John Luther Long was an American lawyer and writer, most renowned for his poignant short story "Madame Butterfly." This tale, inspired by the experiences of his sister Jennie Correll, who traveled to Japan with her husband, a Methodist missionary, explores themes of love, betrayal, and cultural clash. Long's narrative, first published in 1898, captivated audiences and laid the groundwork for various adaptations, including the famous opera by Giacomo Puccini. Long's work is significant not only for its emotional depth but also for its role in introducing Western audiences to Japanese culture and the complexities of East-West relationships during a time of growing international interest in Japan. Although his literary output was limited, the impact of "Madame Butterfly" has endured, influencing countless adaptations in literature, theater, and film. Long's legacy is marked by his ability to evoke empathy and challenge perceptions through the lens of a tragic love story, making him a notable figure in American literature.
Famous Quotes
View all 6 quotes“A believer has forgiveness of sin, and Christ will not cast him out. Sin will ever remain part of the Christian's flesh, as seen, for instance, in evil desires referred to in Rom. 6-8. 'But as long as a man comes to Me in faith, even though he should stumble, I shall see to it that this does not harm him.' His sinful flesh will have no dominion over him; there is no condemnation for those who are incorporated into the body of Christ Jesus (Rom. 8:1), although they are not yet entirely pure, and their flesh is not completely mortified.””
“As long, therefore, as I am surrounded by danger and the uncertainty of death, so long must I believe in Christ, my Life, and this means my whole time on earth. Hence time, hours, and years have no bearing on this sermon. It does not refer to an annual resolution, so that you may say 'Christ will be my life when I am about to give up the ghost. Meanwhile, I will live as I please.' No, you must know that you are already engaged in crossing over; you have already set foot into the sea with the Children of Israel, and you must now continue until you have come ashore, lest the enemy attack you en route.””
“For more than twenty years I was a pious monk, read Mass daily, and so weakened myself with fasting and praying that I would not have been long for this life had I continued. Yet all this taken together cannot help me in even one little crisis to be able to say before God: 'All this I have done, now please consider it, and be gracious to me.' What else did I achieve with this than to plague myself uselessly, impair my health, and waste my time?””
Books from the author
