We all sing it when the bells chime midnight but what does Auld Lang Syne mean? It literally translates as Old Long Since making reference to the “olden days”, particularly with friends.
Written as a poem by Rabbie (Robert) Burns (25 January 1759 – 21 July 1796) in 1788, it was put to the music of an even older folk tune. The Scottish Bard used the Scottish dialect however here are the lyrics in an English, singable form:
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and auld lang syne?
Chorus:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ 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 tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
Chorus:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
We two have run about the hills,
and picked the daisies fine;
But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,
since auld lang syne.
Chorus:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.
Chorus:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And there’s a hand my trusty friend!
And give me a hand o’ thine!
And we’ll tak’ a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.
Chorus:
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
Wishing Everybody A Happy New Year!
Stay Safe!
