Robert Burns is credited with the words most commonly sung for “Auld Lang Syne” at New Year’s Eve.
Burns, Scotland’s national poet, wrote down a version of the song in 1788. Its title is Scots for “old long since,” commonly understood as referring to old times or days gone by. The lyrics ask whether old acquaintances should be forgotten and encourage remembrance and friendship.
Burns did not necessarily invent every element of the song. Older Scots verses and melodies with similar wording existed, and Burns reported that he had encountered traditional material. His version helped establish the form that later became internationally famous.
The tune is now used at midnight celebrations in many countries, though it is also associated with farewells, graduations, and memorial occasions. Performances may omit verses or use local adaptations, but Burns’s name remains linked to the best-known lyrics.