Which Scottish poet is credited with the best-known lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne”?

Scottish poet Robert Burns is credited with the best-known lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne.”

Burns wrote down and adapted the poem in 1788, recording language from Scottish song tradition rather than inventing every element from scratch. He sent it to the Scots Musical Museum, where it was preserved and circulated. The familiar title refers to old times and enduring remembrance.

The melody associated with the song developed through traditional and printed musical sources. Its later worldwide association with New Year's Eve was strengthened by bandleader Guy Lombardo, whose broadcasts repeatedly used it at midnight. That broadcasting history helped establish the song as a ritual of public celebration in North America and beyond.

Burns should not be confused with Robert Louis Stevenson, another famous Scottish writer. Burns Night, held on January 25, celebrates Burns's birthday and is a separate Scottish observance from Hogmanay, although both may feature Scottish food, poetry, and music.