In the song “Auld Lang Syne,” which Scottish poet is credited with the words?

Robert Burns is credited with the words of “Auld Lang Syne,” the song commonly sung at New Year's Eve gatherings. Burns, Scotland's national poet, wrote down and sent a version of the lyrics in 1788.

The phrase “auld lang syne” means “old long since,” or roughly “days gone by.” The song is about remembering old friendships and shared experiences, which helped it become suitable for farewells and year-end ceremonies. Its melody is a traditional Scottish tune, so Burns is not generally credited as the composer of the music.

The song became internationally popular through performances and broadcasts, especially in English-speaking countries. Versions differ in wording and arrangement, and many singers know only the chorus. A common mistake is to describe it as an exclusively New Year's song: it is also used at graduations, memorials, retirements and other moments of transition.