“Should old acquaintance be forgot” is the standard lyric from “Auld Lang Syne.” The question asks whether old friends and shared memories should be forgotten, and the song’s implied answer is no.
Robert Burns wrote the familiar Scots poem in 1788, drawing on older Scottish verses and folk traditions. Its title means roughly “old long since,” or “for old times’ sake.” The poem was later paired with the traditional melody now recognized around the world, especially at midnight on New Year’s Eve.
The word “forgot” can sound unusual because modern English more often uses “forgotten” in this construction. However, “be forgot” is the established wording of the song. Another common variation replaces “old” with “auld,” reflecting the Scots original. The song is also sung at farewells, graduations, memorials, and Scout gatherings, not only at New Year celebrations.