The title of the song is translated into modern English in various ways, including the literal translation "old long ago," and the more idiomatic "days gone by." In Matthew Fitt's translation of fairy tales into the Scottish language, he uses the phrase, "In the days o lang syne" as others use "Once upon a time." See the Resources section for lyrics and a chance to listen to the song.
The poem's basic message is that we should not forget our friends from times past. In the song, two old friends who haven't seen each other in a long time meet and share a drink together. They reminisce fondly of memories from long ago, similar to how people speak of "the good old days."
Robert Burns, also known as Rabbie Burns, is commonly considered the National Poet of Scotland. Burns said he picked up some of the lyrics from an old man he heard singing, and the song does have similarity to a ballad called "Old Long Syne," published in 1711 by James Watson. Burns was a Freemason, and the Masons to this day perform a specific ritual singing this song to symbolize their camaraderie. Burns also is well-known for his poem, "Coming Thro' the Rye," particularly because it forms the basis for the title of J.D. Salinger's beloved novel, "The Catcher in the Rye." In the novel, young Holden Caufield remembers the song lyrics incorrectly.
"Auld Lang Syne" is strongly associated with Canadian band leader Guy Lombardo, whose band played the song on New Year's Eve radio and television broadcasts from 1929 through 1976. Lombardo passed away in 1977, ending the tradition. "Auld Lang Syne" has been recorded by numerous musicians in many styles.
The Guinness Book of World Records lists "Auld Lang Syne" as one of the most frequently sung songs in English, along with "Happy Birthday" and "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow." The song is sung or played in many movies, from "It's a Wonderful Life" to "When Harry Met Sally."