“Auld Lang Syne” is the song traditionally sung at midnight during many New Year’s Eve celebrations.
The title is Scots and is commonly understood as meaning “old long since,” or memories of times past. Robert Burns wrote the poem in 1788, drawing on older Scottish words and expressions. The melody used today became associated with the song through later musical arrangements and transmission.
The song’s lyrics ask whether old acquaintances should be forgotten and call for friendship, remembrance, and shared experience. Those themes made it suitable for a transition from one year to the next. It is now sung internationally, often in English-speaking countries and at farewells, reunions, and other ceremonial occasions.
The piece is sometimes mistakenly described as an ancient folk song written entirely by Burns. Burns adapted traditional material rather than inventing every line from nothing. Also, many celebrations use only part of the song, so performances can vary considerably in length and wording.