Auld Lang Syne Analysis

The sentimental New Year’s anthem Auld Lang Syne beautifully illustrates the power of true friendship and the glory of the past. Written by Scottish poet Robert Burns and set to a Gaelic folk song, the words of this stirring piece have moved audiences for more than 300 years, though modern listeners have to look beyond their rugged appearance to understand their true meaning. Originally written in Scots and often sung in broken half-English with words such as hae for have and tak for take, most are content with mindlessly listening to the melody, but analysis of the lyrics gives the tune real depth and amplifies the effect of the work considerably. Often heard shortly after the bell tolls midnight on New Year’s Eve, the original intention of Auld Lang Syne was not to be a holiday carol, rather, a reflection on companionship through time, told from one old friend to another. The song opens with the iconic question: “Should auld (old) acquaintance be forgot/And never brought to mind?” This question provokes thought instead of a response, for …show more content…
Towards the end of the song, Burns turns back to his friend as says “And there’s a hand, my trusty fiere (friend)/And gie’s (give) a hand o’ thine (of yours)/And we’ll tak (take) a right guid (good) willie-waught (ale)/For days of auld lang syne!” Taking his hand symbolizes a mutually renewed bond of friendship, though one not as strong as the one in the past, and together they make that toast celebrating their times gone