It’s thanks to John and John I know the word
That’s used when martyrs are in art depicted
With their own severed heads in hand: absurd,
Yet somehow dignified are the afflicted.

It’s thanks to Schwartz and Menken I possess
A favorite cephalophore at all.
My past pet peeves they handily redress,
While cleverness and spectacle enthrall.

Though Aphrodisius unfortunate
Capitulated to the mob his head,
That generosity produced a glut
Of miracles he made once he was dead.

That silliness can come from sacrifice
I find oddly appropriate and nice.