Auld Lang Syne Text Deutsch Englisch

Willkommen! Are you planning a trip to Germany or perhaps already enjoying your stay? Or maybe you're just curious about a song you've heard around New Year's Eve? Either way, this guide is here to explain the beautiful and often misunderstood song, Auld Lang Syne. We'll explore its Scottish roots, delve into the original English lyrics, provide a German translation, and discuss its cultural significance in both countries, making sure you're well-equipped to sing along this New Year's Eve – or any time you want to celebrate friendship and memories!

Was ist "Auld Lang Syne" überhaupt? (What is "Auld Lang Syne" anyway?)

The phrase "Auld Lang Syne" is Scottish and literally translates to "old long since," or more colloquially, "old times." The song is a traditional Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to a traditional folk melody. It's a song about remembering old friends and good times, often sung at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve (Hogmanay in Scotland) and at other celebrations where farewells are made or old friendships are rekindled.

Die Kernbotschaft: Freundschaft und Erinnerungen (The Core Message: Friendship and Memories)

The song's central theme revolves around cherishing the memories and relationships of the past. It encourages us to raise a glass to old friends, acknowledging the shared experiences that have shaped our lives. It's a reminder to stay connected with those who matter, despite the passage of time and the distances that may separate us. The lyrics prompt reflection on the bonds that have endured and the importance of honoring those connections.

Der Originaltext auf Englisch (The Original English Lyrics)

Here are the original English lyrics to the first verse and chorus of Auld Lang Syne:

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.

The archaic language can be a bit tricky, so let's break it down:

• Auld: Old
• Acquaintance: Friendship, old friends
• Brought to mind: Remembered
• Syne: Since, ago
• Jo: Dear, friend (term of endearment)
• Tak a cup o' kindness: Have a drink together

Therefore, the first verse essentially asks: "Should old friendships be forgotten and never remembered? Should old friendships be forgotten for the sake of old times?" And the chorus encourages us to raise a glass to friendship and remember the good old days.

Eine deutsche Übersetzung (A German Translation)

There isn't a single, universally accepted German translation of Auld Lang Syne. Translating poetry is always challenging because you need to capture the meaning, the rhythm, and sometimes even the rhyme scheme. Here are a few different approaches to translating the first verse and chorus, trying to capture the spirit of the original:

Translation Option 1: Literal and Poetic

Soll alte Freundschaft nun vergehn,
Und nie mehr im Gedächtnis stehn?
Soll alte Freundschaft nun vergehn,
Und längst vergangne Zeit?

Refrain:
Auf längst vergangne Zeit, mein Freund,
Auf längst vergangne Zeit!
Wir trinken noch ein Glas der Lieb,
Auf längst vergangne Zeit!

This version tries to maintain a somewhat poetic tone and stay relatively close to the literal meaning. "Längst vergangne Zeit" directly translates to "long past time".

Translation Option 2: More Contemporary and Accessible

Soll man alte Freunde je vergessen,
Und nie an sie zurückdenken?
Soll man alte Freunde je vergessen,
Und an vergangne Zeit?

Refrain:
Auf vergangne Zeit, mein Freund,
Auf vergangne Zeit!
Lasst uns ein Glas der Freundschaft heben,
Auf vergangne Zeit!

This version uses more contemporary language, replacing "nun vergehn" with "je vergessen" (ever forget) and "im Gedächtnis stehn" with "zurückdenken" (think back). It also uses "Freundschaft heben" which more clearly means "raise a toast to friendship".

Translation Option 3: Emphasizing the "Kindness" Aspect

Soll alte Bekanntschaft denn vergessen sein,
Und nie mehr in Erinnerung ruh'n?
Soll alte Bekanntschaft denn vergessen sein,
Um alter Zeiten willen?

Refrain:
Um alter Zeiten willen, mein Freund,
Um alter Zeiten willen!
Lasst uns ein Glas der Güte trinken,
Um alter Zeiten willen!

This translation focuses on "Güte" (goodness, kindness) in the refrain, directly translating the original intent of "cup o' kindness". The phrase "in Erinnerung ruh'n" (rest in memory) is a more elegant way of saying "remembered".

Important Note: When choosing which translation to sing, pick the one that resonates most with you and that you find easiest to understand and pronounce. The most important thing is to capture the spirit of the song and celebrate friendship!

Die kulturelle Bedeutung in Deutschland und Schottland (Cultural Significance in Germany and Scotland)

While Auld Lang Syne is inextricably linked to New Year's Eve celebrations around the world, its significance differs slightly between Scotland and Germany.

Schottland: Ein Nationales Symbol (Scotland: A National Symbol)

In Scotland, Auld Lang Syne is deeply ingrained in the national identity. It's not just a song; it's a symbol of Scottish heritage, community, and the importance of remembering the past. The tradition of singing it while linking arms in a circle ("hands across the table" and then crossing over to hold hands with people next to you) is a powerful expression of unity and friendship. Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) celebrations in Scotland are incomplete without a rousing rendition of this song.

Deutschland: Bekannt, aber nicht so tief verwurzelt (Germany: Known, but not as deeply rooted)

In Germany, Auld Lang Syne is certainly known, often under the title "Nehmt Abschied, Brüder" (Take Leave, Brothers), especially through scouting movements and folk music traditions. It is often sung at end-of-year celebrations and other gatherings, but it doesn't hold the same level of national symbolic importance as it does in Scotland. The German translation, especially the versions mentioned above, are often used in settings emphasizing camaraderie and farewells, like at the end of school year or when saying goodbye to colleagues.

Wie man "Auld Lang Syne" richtig singt (How to Sing "Auld Lang Syne" Correctly)

The beauty of Auld Lang Syne is that it's a song meant to be sung together, regardless of vocal ability! However, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:

1. Know the Lyrics: Familiarize yourself with the lyrics in whichever language you choose to sing. This will help you feel more confident and engaged.
2. Find the Melody: There are countless recordings of Auld Lang Syne available online. Listen to a few different versions to get a feel for the melody.
3. Sing with Feeling: Don't just sing the words; sing with emotion! Think about the friendships and memories you're celebrating.
4. Join the Circle: If you're singing with a group, participate in the traditional hand-holding circle. This adds to the sense of unity and connection. As mentioned before, the traditional formation is "hands across the table" crossing your arms over your body to hold hands with the people next to you.
5. Don't Worry About Perfection: This isn't a performance for judges; it's a celebration! Relax, have fun, and enjoy the moment.

Fazit (Conclusion)

Whether you're in Scotland, Germany, or anywhere else in the world, Auld Lang Syne is a powerful song that transcends cultural boundaries. It's a reminder to cherish our friendships, remember the good times, and look forward to the future with hope and optimism. So, this year, why not learn the lyrics, gather your friends, and raise a glass to "auld lang syne"? Prost! (Cheers!) and have a wonderful time!