"Auld Lang Syne '' (Scots pronunciation: (ˈɔːl (d) lɑŋˈsəin): note "s '' rather than "z '') is a Scots poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song (Roud # 6294). It is well known in many countries, especially in the English - speaking world, its traditional use being to bid farewell to the old year at the stroke of midnight. By extension, it is also sung at funerals, graduations, and as a farewell or ending to other occasions. The international Scouting movement, in many countries, uses it to close jamborees and other functions.
who is being referred to in the song auld lang syne
the old year