I appreciate all the historical background given here for this song. I didn't know any of it, though I've said for many a decade that the tune is perfect in its simplicity and clarity. I always have a G harmonica in my pocket, and if ever I visit a church (or any reverberant space!) I take it out and play Amazing Grace as long as there's no-one there to offend. I've played it unaccompanied three times at funerals and it goes down well. Dunno so much about the words, but I suppose I am sort of a wretch!