John the Baptist
John & Beverley Martyn Lyrics

The song "John the Baptist" by John & Beverley Martyn is a story about the biblical character of John the Baptist and his relationship with his friend Salome, who famously requested his head on a plate after dancing for King Herod. The lyrics are from John's perspective, and he acknowledges that Salome is only after his head, not his heart, but despite this, they share a private joke together. The song has a melancholic tone, reflecting John's awareness of his eventual fate as an executioner's victim. However, John finds some comfort in his relationship with Salome, who dances for him in the moonlight and listens to his music with great appreciation. Even in the face of death, John retains a sense of humor, imagining himself grinning at the irony of his demise.

The lyrics of the song capture the duality of John's life, torn between his devotion to God and his role as an executioner. The line "With the revelations granted and my face just like a haunted" suggests that John has been granted divine insights, but they have taken a toll on his mental health. He sees himself on a nursery wall on a "Wanted" poster, highlighting the irony of his situation. Moreover, the fact that there's a big reward for bringing him in, and yet he knows he committed no sin, underscores his inner conflict and the injustice of his fate.

Overall, the song "John the Baptist" is a powerful meditation on faith, mortality, and friendship. It explores the complexity of human relationships, even in the face of death. The song's beautiful melody and evocative lyrics make it a standout track from John and Beverley Martyn's album "Stormbringer!"