Auld Lang Syne – Robert Burns

Have you ever wondered about that song so many people sing at midnight on New Years Day? You know the one to which no one really seems to know the words? The title of the song is Auld Lang Syne, and it’s based on an old Scottish folk song that Robert Burns wrote down in 1788.

When Robert Burns turned Auld Lang Syne in to the Scots Musical Museum, he stated, “The following song, an old song, of the olden times, and which has never been in print, nor even in manuscript until I took it down from an old man.”

According to Merriam Webster, Auld Lang Syne means the good old times. This song is probably the most sung New Years song ever. I’ve only recently read the English translation of Burn’s song/poem, and I thought perhaps you might enjoy that nugget of knowledge before you attend your New Years Eve parties.

Auld Lang Syne By Robert Burns

Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind? Should old acquaintance be forgot, and old lang syne? CHORUS: For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne, we’ll take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne. And surely you’ll buy your pint cup! and surely I’ll buy mine! And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet, for auld lang syne. CHORUS We two have run about the slopes, and picked the daisies fine; But we’ve wandered many a weary foot, since auld lang syne. CHORUS We two have paddled in the stream, from morning sun till dine; But seas between us broad have roared since auld lang syne. CHORUS And there’s a hand my trusty friend! And give me a hand o’ thine! And we’ll take a right good-will draught, for auld lang syne. CHORUS

This will be my last post of 2018. I wish you all a Happy New Year! May love, laughter, and wisdom follow you throughout 2019. My next post will be on New Year’s Day.

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