Which hard working, hard drinking 18th century Scottish poet wrote the lyrics to the songs as "Coming Through the Rye" and "Auld Lang Syne"?

The enduring lyrics of "Auld Lang Syne" and "Comin' Thro' the Rye" are attributed to none other than Robert Burns, Scotland's beloved national poet. Born in 1759, Burns was a prolific lyricist and poet who often adapted and refined traditional Scottish folk songs, giving them new life and ensuring their place in history. "Auld Lang Syne," meaning "for old times' sake," is a prime example; Burns famously sent the poem to the Scots Musical Museum in 1788, noting it was an ancient song he had taken down from an old man. His version became the definitive one, now sung worldwide to bid farewell to the old year and celebrate enduring friendships.

Similarly, Burns penned the lyrics for "Comin' Thro' the Rye," a song that also drew from an existing melody. His words, often characterized by their vivid imagery and relatable themes, captured the essence of Scottish life and culture. Burns's genius lay in his ability to weave together traditional elements with his own poetic flair, creating works that resonated deeply with ordinary people and continue to do so centuries later.

Beyond his literary contributions, Robert Burns led a life as colorful as his verse. The son of a struggling farmer, he experienced hard labor from a young age, which shaped his empathetic view of the common person. He was known for his high spirits, his love of women, and indeed, his fondness for a drink, a lifestyle that contributed to his reputation as a "hard-drinking" poet. Despite a relatively short life, dying at just 37 in 1796, his influence on Scottish literature and global culture is immeasurable, cementing his status as one of the most celebrated figures in literary history.