The New Year is a time for reflection on the past and rumination on the future, a time that has produced many sad poems over the years. While for some the arrival of a new year brings thoughts of renewal and hope, for others, it can be a melancholy event.
For a selection of sad New Year poems, check out the links on this page.
Auld Lang Syne
In 1788, Robert Burns put an old Scottish poem called "Auld Lang Syne" to music, and in the years to follow it became one of the most celebrated songs associated with ringing in the New Year - but what do the words auld lang syne actually mean? The direct translation of the the words is "old long ago" and in combination with the rest of the poem reflects on the memorable times of one's life.The World Burns Club: What About "Auld Lang Syne"
"The Death of the Old Year" Excerpt
- "He lieth still: he doth not move:
- He will not see the dawn of day.
- He hath no other life above.
- He gave me a friend and a true truelove
- And the New-year will take 'em away.
- Old year you must not go;
- So long you have been with us,
- Such joy as you have seen with us,
- Old year, you shall not go."—Alfred Lord TennysonFatherTime's.net: "The Death of the Old Year"
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
New Year's Day is January 1
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Fact:
In 2010, the New Year dawns on a Friday
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Fact:
Many sad poems reflect on the symbolic death of the old year
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Fact:
Poetic themes may be influenced by resolutions, loneliness, alcohol consumption, death
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Fact:
Chinese New Year begins on the first day of the lunar calendar and lasts for two weeks
