By Zaiti Athirah
Courtesy of Pinterest
As the final seconds of the year tick away, and the world collectively bids adieu to the old and welcomes the new, there's a universal tune that resonates across time zones and cultures—the melodic embrace of "Auld Lang Syne." This timeless Scottish folk song, penned by the poetic Robert Burns, transcends its traditional roots, becoming a symbol of reflection, friendship, and the shared human experience.
Translated, the expression literally means "old long since" or, more poignantly, "for old time's sake." It's worth noting that the song's title is crafted in Scots language, a linguistic cousin to English, as highlighted by Scotland's national tourist board.
But why do we sing it on every New Year’s Eve?
The credit for the song's widespread popularity in the United States goes to none other than Guy Lombardo, a renowned bandleader whose influence resonated far beyond the musical stage. In 1929, Lombardo and his Royal Canadian Big Band played "Auld Lang Syne" during a New Year's Eve broadcast, marking the beginning of a tradition that endures to this day.
Lombardo's connection to the song is deeply rooted in his upbringing in western Ontario, a region home to a substantial Scottish population. According to a 1965 interview with "LIFE" magazine, it was simply customary in this area for bands to conclude every dance with the titular "Auld Lang Syne."
In the same interview, Lombardo revealed, "The main reason why Lombardo became identified as the Ghost of New Years Past, of New Years Present and of New Years Yet to Come, he says, 'is because Auld Lang Syne is our theme song—and was long before anyone ever heard us on the radio.'" This declaration solidified the song's association with Lombardo and his band as the unofficial heralds of the New Year.
Following Lombardo's iconic 1929 broadcast, "Auld Lang Syne" seamlessly integrated itself into popular culture, finding a place in films like "Forrest Gump," "Sex and the City," and the timeless classic "When Harry Met Sally."
In the latter, a memorable scene unfolds between Harry, played by the legendary Billy Crystal, and Sally, portrayed by Meg Ryan. Their comical and memorable dialogue encapsulates the universal mystique surrounding the song.
Courtesy of Columbia Pictures
"My whole life, I don't know what this song means," ponders Harry. "I mean, 'should old acquaintance be forgot?' Does that mean that we should forget old acquaintances or does it mean that if we happen to forget them, we should remember them, which is not possible because we already forgot 'em?"
"Well, maybe it just means that we should remember that we forgot them or something," Meg Ryan's character Sally responds. "Anyway, it's about old friends."
Ultimately, the lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne” pose the question: How do we best remember the memories, friends, and experiences of years before? And the song then answers, that is to 'share a cup of kindness yet' as we tread into the new year.
So, as you find yourself singing along to this familiar melody as the clock strikes midnight, remember that "Auld Lang Syne" is not just a song; it's a timeless bridge between the old and the new, a musical embrace of nostalgia, and a collective celebration of the memories that bind us together on the eve of new beginnings.
Well, anyway, have a happy new year from all of us in The BENL Chronicle!
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