AULD LANG SYNE
The song, "Auld Lang Syne," is sung at the stroke
of midnight in almost every English-speaking
country in the world to bring in the new year.
At least partially written by Robert Burns in the
1700's, it was first published in 1796 after
Burns' death. Early variations of the song were
sung prior to 1700 and inspired Burns to produce
the modern rendition. An old Scotch tune, "Auld
Lang Syne" literally means "old long ago," or
simply, "the good old days." Here are the lyrics
to the song.
Auld Lang Syne
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
and days of auld lang syne?
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot
and days of auld lang syne?
And here's a hand, my trusty friend
And gie's a hand o' thine
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet
For auld lang syne
Index
| Happy New Years-Why We Celebrate It | |
Out with the
Out with the "Old",In with the "New".
The only holiday that is observed all around
the world is New Year's Day. People feel the need
of a new beginning, once a year, regardless of
different religious beliefs or racial traditions.
It may be the oldest day of special meaning, too,
because it stands for a promise of new life.
Traditionally, the change from an "old" year to
a "new" year has been the time for "making a
fresh start," and for making New Year's
resolutions. These aim not only at eliminating
our personal faults but also at renewing
friendships and settling quarrels.
In the first quarter of this century, many people
exchanged New Year's Day visits. It was a time
for "open house," with refreshments ready for
serving. Nowadays, popular emphasis is placed,
more and more, on late-hour New Year's Eve
merrymaking.
Links
Why we celebrate New Years, and what
the symbols mean
