Scottish poet Robert Burns wrote the words of “Auld Lang Syne,” often sung at New Year's Eve celebrations.
Burns sent a version of the poem to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788, describing it as an old song. The phrase “auld lang syne” means “old long since,” or more naturally, “for old times' sake.” Its lyrics ask whether old friends and past memories should be forgotten.
The melody commonly used today developed through later musical arrangements and publication, so Burns should not be treated as the sole creator of every modern musical version. The song became especially associated with New Year celebrations in the English-speaking world.
It is also sung at reunions, farewells, graduations, and memorial occasions. The words and tune vary slightly across performances, but the central theme of remembering friendship and shared history remains consistent.