Robert Burns wrote the poem that inspired the lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne,” the song widely sung at New Year's Eve celebrations.
Burns sent a version of the Scots-language song to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788. The phrase “auld lang syne” means roughly “old long since” or “for old times' sake.” The words reflect friendship, remembrance, and shared experiences rather than describing New Year's Eve itself.
The familiar melody is based on an older Scottish tune, and the song existed in related forms before Burns recorded his version. This is why authorship and melody are sometimes confused: Burns is credited with the best-known poem and lyrics, but he did not compose the tune commonly used today.
The song became especially associated with New Year's celebrations through its spread in Scotland and later through emigrant communities and popular performances. It is also sung at farewells, reunions, graduations, and memorial occasions in many countries.