Robert Burns wrote the words of “Auld Lang Syne,” the song traditionally sung at many New Year's celebrations.
Burns, Scotland's national poet, sent a version of the song to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788. The phrase “auld lang syne” means “old long since,” or more naturally, “for old times' sake.” Its verses look back on friendship, shared memories, and enduring relationships.
The melody used today became widely associated with the song through later musical arrangements and performance traditions. English-speaking communities adopted it for farewells, graduations, memorials, and especially the transition into a new year.
People often assume Burns composed every modern musical detail, but the song has older textual and melodic roots. Burns is credited with shaping and recording the familiar literary version, while the tune and earlier variants developed through Scottish tradition.