Robert Burns wrote the Scottish song “Auld Lang Syne,” which is commonly sung at New Year's Eve celebrations.
Burns, Scotland's national poet, wrote down and adapted versions of the song in the late eighteenth century. The title is a Scots phrase meaning “old long since,” or more naturally, “for old times' sake.” Its lyrics ask whether old friendships and memories should be forgotten, then celebrate remembrance and fellowship.
The melody associated with the song became widely established in the nineteenth century. During the twentieth century, the tune spread internationally through recordings, radio, films, and public celebrations. It is now strongly associated with midnight on New Year's Eve in many English-speaking countries and far beyond them.
Burns did not invent every element of the text from nothing: older Scots verses using the phrase existed before his version. That is why references often describe him as the writer or adapter of the familiar song rather than claiming that every line originated with him. “Auld Lang Syne” is also sung at farewells, memorial occasions, and other moments of transition.