The traditional Scottish song “Auld Lang Syne” is well-known as a staple of New Year’s Eve celebrations. While the lyrics were penned in 1788 by the celebrated Scottish poet Robert Burns, the melody itself is much older, originating from an ancient folk song of Scotland. Translated directly, Auld Syne means “old long since,” but figuratively it can be interpreted as “times gone by” or “days of old.” On its surface, this classic ballad speaks to friendship, nostalgia, and the passage of time.
It calls upon us to remember people and events from the past fondly as we move forward into the future. The lyrics speak of unity, companionship, and reflection, which resonates with many people each year when they sing it at midnight on New Years Eve as a way to bid farewell to one chapter while welcoming another.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Auld Lang Syne |
| Artist | Traditional Scottish Folk Song, famously performed by various artists |
| Lyricist | Robert Burns |
| Composer | Traditional Scottish melody (possibly pre-dating Burns’ lyrics) |
| Year Written | 1788 |
| Genre | Scottish Folk, Traditional, New Year’s Eve Anthem |
| Language | Scots (with English translation) |
| Themes | Friendship, nostalgia, reflection, the passage of time |
| Lyrics Style | Poetic, nostalgic, heartfelt, reflective |
| Key Lyrics | “Should acquaintance be forgotten and never brought to mind?” |
| Notable Performances | Performed by many artists, including Guy Lombardo, Mariah Carey, and more |
| Cultural Significance | Traditional song for New Year’s Eve, symbolizing endings and new beginnings |
| Global Recognition | Sung worldwide on New Year’s Eve, symbolizing the end of the year and hope for the future |
Auld Lang Syne Lyrics
Should old acquaintance be forgotten?
And never brought to mind?
Should old acquaintance be forgotten?
In the days of auld lang syne?
For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne
We’ll drink a cup of kindness yet
For the sake of auld lang syne
And surely you will buy your cup
And surely, I’ll buy mine!
We’ll take a cup of kindness yet
For the sake of auld lang syne
We two who’ve paddled in the stream
From morning sun ’til night
The seas between us roared and swelled
Since the days of auld lang syne
For old acquaintance be forgotten
And never brought to mind
Should old acquaintance be forgotten?
For the sake of auld lang syne?
For old acquaintance be forgotten
And never brought to mind
Should old acquaintance be forgotten?
In the days of auld lang syne?
For auld lang syne, my dear
For auld lang syne
We’ll drink a cup of kindness yet
For the sake of auld lang syne
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