What are the Lyrics for Auld Lang Syne?
Auld Lang Syne Lyrics
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
and auld lang syne?
For auld lang syne, my jo,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And surely ye’ll be your pint-stoup!
and surely I’ll be mine!
And we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my jo,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
We twa hae run about the braes,
and pou’d the gowans fine;
But we’ve wander’d mony a weary fit,
sin’ auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my jo,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
We twa hae paidl’d in the burn,
frae morning sun till dine;
But seas between us braid hae roar’d
sin’ auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my jo,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
And there’s a hand,
my trusty fiere!
and gie’s a hand o’ thine!
And we’ll tak’ a right gude-willie waught,
for auld lang syne.
What does Auld Lang Syne mean?
The title “Auld Lang Syne” means “for the sake of old times,” “old long since,” or “times gone by.” The song is about two old friends catching up over a few drinks. It urges the singers and listeners to remember times gone by. In English, the words “my jo” are often changed to “my dear.” Click here to read the Burns’ version of the song translated into one that is easier for English-speakers to sing.
The tradition of singing “Auld Lang Syne” to ring in the New Year began in Scotland as a part of the Hogmanay celebrations. The song is reportedly also often sung at Burn’s Night Celebrations and for honoring military around the world. It’s also been known to mark the end of funeral services or graduation ceremonies.
“Auld Lang Syne” was written by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788, and is based on an older Scottish folk song.
Resources
Classic FM: What are the Lyrics to Auld Lang Syne and what does Auld Lang Syne actually mean? (2023)
