Scottish poet Robert Burns wrote down the words that helped popularize “Auld Lang Syne” in 1788.
Burns sent a version of the song to the Scots Musical Museum, explaining that he had taken down old verses from an elderly man and supplied additional material himself. The poem therefore combines traditional elements with Burns's literary contribution rather than representing a wholly new composition.
The song's later association with New Year's Eve developed through social singing and public celebrations. Its language is Scots, and the phrase “auld lang syne” refers to old times or days long past. The widely sung version is only part of the longer text associated with Burns.