Robert Burns, also known as Scotland’s National Bard or simply the ‘Bard of Ayrshire’, was a prolific Scottish poet and lyricist He wrote his first poem aged 15. By the time he died in 1796 at 37 years old, he had completed around 220 works!
His life and works
Burns wrote extensively in both Scots and English, producing a large body of work that included poems, songs, and letters. The family faced financial challenges due to their father’s health and farming struggles, which forced Burns to take on various responsibilities on the farm to support his family.
Despite these hardships, Burns’ passion for literature and his keen observations of rural life and nature found expression in his early works, setting the foundation for his future literary endeavors.
New Years Eve
Robert Burns penned numerous poems that have left a lasting impact, but one of his most famous and widely recognized works is “Auld Lang Syne.” This poem is a beloved song sung at New Year’s Eve celebrations around the world. Its lyrics, written in Scots language, reflect on old friendships, reminiscences of the past, and the hope for the future.
The phrase “auld lang syne” itself translates to “old long since” or “days gone by,” encapsulating the sentiment of remembering and cherishing old times and old friends. Its universal themes of friendship, camaraderie, and nostalgia have made it a timeless piece, cementing its place as one of Burns’ most iconic creations.
Burns Night
Burns Night commemorates the life and legacy of Scotland’s beloved poet, Robert Burns, born on January 25, 1759. This celebration, held annually on Burns’ birthday, began as a gathering of his close friends to honor his literary contributions and cultural impact after his passing in 1796. Over time, it evolved into a cherished Scottish tradition celebrated not only in Scotland but worldwide by Scots and enthusiasts of Burns’ work.
The evening typically involves a formal dinner, known as a Burns Supper, where guests gather to enjoy a meal featuring Scottish cuisine, recitations of Burns’ poetry, and the centerpiece, the “Address to a Haggis,” where a haggis—a traditional Scottish dish— is ceremonially presented and consumed amidst lively readings and toasts in tribute to the Bard of Scotland. Burns Night stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and cultural significance of Robert Burns in Scottish heritage and literature.
Why not spend Burns’ Night in a Cooper Cottage!?
Burns Cottage – The birthplace in 1759 of the poet Robert Burns and now museum in Alloway
What are the lyrics to Auld Land Syne?
First verse:
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
and auld lang syne?
Chorus:
For auld lang syne, my jo,
for auld lang syne,
we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
Second verse:
And surely ye’ll be your pint-stoup!
and surely I’ll be mine!
And we’ll tak’ a cup o’ kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.
Chorus
Third verse:
We twa hae run about the braes,
and pou’d the gowans fine;
But we’ve wander’d mony a weary fit,
sin’ auld lang syne.
Chorus
Fourth verse:
We twa hae paidl’d in the burn,
frae morning sun till dine;
But seas between us braid hae roar’d
sin’ auld lang syne.
Chorus
Fifth verse:
And there’s a hand,
my trusty fiere!
and gie’s a hand o’ thine!
And we’ll tak’ a right gude-willie waught,
for auld lang syne.
