Scottish poet Robert Burns is credited with writing down the familiar lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne” in 1788.
Burns sent the song to the Scots Musical Museum, describing it as an old song he had encountered and supplemented. This means he is best understood as the principal recorder and adapter of the celebrated version, not necessarily the sole inventor of every line or the melody.
The Scots phrase “auld lang syne” means “old long since,” conveying remembrance of earlier times. The song became a standard New Year's Eve choice in many English-speaking countries, although it is also used at reunions, farewells, graduations, and memorial events.