Saturday, January 1, 2011

Auld Lang Syne


Robert Burns, Scotland's National Poet
 Last night after hearing this song sung in celebration of the New Year, Cindy asked me what the phrase, "Auld Lang Syne" means.  It means, literally, "old long since", or more appropriately in today's parlance, "long, long ago", or "days gone by", or "once upon a time".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acxnmaVTlZA  (I think this is beautiful)

The song was written by Scottish poet Robert Burns in 1788.  It poses the question of whether it is proper that old times be forgotten, and is usually understood that we should remember our old friendships.  The song is especially popular as a tune to help celebrate the new year, but is also commonly sung at funerals, graduations, etc.

Guy Lombardo and His Orchestra
Canadian band leader Guy Lombardo popularized the song as a way to help celebrate New Year's eve in 1929.
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8 comments:

  1. Jane @ Hard Work HomesteadJanuary 1, 2011 at 12:20 PM

    I have never heard this song any other time than New Years. Interesting fact to know. Happy New Year to you Clint.

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  2. Cindy EllisonJanuary 1, 2011 at 12:22 PM

    I think it "proper" that only bad times be forgotten! :-D Thanks for the explanation!

    Love this version of the song. Beautiful!

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  3. Sabine GimmJanuary 1, 2011 at 12:32 PM

    What a wonderful song, Clint, I wish you and your family a happy new year and all the best.

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  4. RHYTHM AND RHYMEJanuary 1, 2011 at 1:18 PM

    That was interesting. though everytime I hear the song it brings tears to my eyes,

    Yvonne.

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  5. ClintJanuary 1, 2011 at 2:54 PM

    Jane---I know---but it is so beautiful that I'm kinda' surprised it isn't played more during the year.

    Sabine---Have a beautiful New Year, and God bless you.

    Yvonne---It is a wistfully sad, yet very beautiful song. It's OK to cry!

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  6. NovaJanuary 2, 2011 at 12:54 AM

    Very interesting and a beautiful song.

    I wish you and your family a happy new year.

    Bless you

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  7. GabrielJanuary 2, 2011 at 2:07 AM

    I heard of this song quite often during new year celebrations and farewell parties, quite a good song. :) Wish you and your family happy and blessed new year! God bless!

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  8. AnonymousJanuary 2, 2011 at 1:42 PM

    I love Lombardo:))))

    Happy new year 2011

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