The song is actually a transcription by poet Robert Burns of an old Scottish ballad. The lyrics are written in a classic dialect and basically commemorate friendship, fellowship and hope. The song is sung at gatherings where the past is remembered and a good future is anticipated. Auld Lang Syne roughly translates to old long ago. If you are interested in singing along this year with the rest of the crowd, following are the first few verses to “Auld Lang Syne” from Burns’ version of the ballad.

AULD LANG SYNE

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And auld lang syne!

For auld lang syne, my dear,

For auld lang syne,

We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

For auld lang syne.

And surely ye’1l be your pint stop!

And surely I’ll be mine!

And we’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

For auld lang syne.

For auld lang syne.