Introduction:
“Make New Friends But Keep the Old” is a simple yet meaningful song that has been passed down through generations, especially popular in scouting and camp settings. Its message is one of friendship, unity, and the importance of both cherishing long-lasting friendships and embracing new ones. The song’s catchy tune and profound lyrics make it a favorite for sing-alongs, group gatherings, and lessons on the value of relationships. In this blog post, we will explore the history, lyrics, and significance of this classic song.
Lyrics of “Make New Friends But Keep the Old”:
Here are the lyrics to the well-known version of the song:
Chorus:
Make new friends, but keep the old,
One is silver and the other’s gold.
Verse 1:
A circle’s round, it has no end,
That’s how long I want to be your friend.
Verse 2:
A fire burns bright, it warms the heart,
We’ve been friends, from the very start.
Verse 3:
You have one hand, I have the other,
Put them together, we have each other.
Verse 4:
Silver is precious, gold is too,
I am precious, and so are you.
Verse 5:
You help me, and I’ll help you,
And together, we will see it through.
Chorus (repeated):
Make new friends, but keep the old,
One is silver and the other’s gold.
Themes and Meaning:
The song “Make New Friends But Keep the Old” is packed with meaning, and its simplicity allows it to resonate with children and adults alike. Here are some key themes:
- Friendship and Loyalty:
The core message is about the importance of both making new friends and maintaining old ones. The comparison of new friends to silver and old friends to gold suggests that both kinds of friendships are valuable, each in its own way. - Continuity and Foreverness:
The metaphor of the circle in the second verse symbolizes the unending nature of true friendship. Just like a circle has no end, the bond of friendship, when nurtured, can last a lifetime. - Connection and Support:
The song emphasizes the supportive nature of friendship. By lending a hand to one another and sticking together, friends can overcome challenges and share in life’s joys.
Educational Value:
This song has many educational benefits, particularly for young children learning about relationships, teamwork, and social skills:
- Emotional Development:
Singing this song helps children understand the importance of friendships and how relationships can be cherished over time. The song’s message of maintaining connections can help them realize the role of trust, loyalty, and mutual respect in building strong friendships. - Cultural Significance:
“Make New Friends But Keep the Old” has been passed down through various generations, often sung at scout camps, Girl Guides, and Boy Scouts. It helps introduce children to the cultural importance of community, camaraderie, and tradition. - Social Skills:
By encouraging children to make new friends and value existing friendships, the song teaches vital social skills like empathy, kindness, and the importance of being inclusive. - Music and Rhythm:
The song is often sung in a round, where one group starts the chorus, and another group starts singing the same chorus a few beats later. This musical arrangement enhances children’s listening skills, timing, and ability to work as a team while singing.
Historical and Cultural Significance:
“Make New Friends But Keep the Old” has a long history and is most commonly associated with the scouting movement. The Girl Scouts and Girl Guides have popularized the song, using it as a way to foster a sense of unity and shared experience among participants. Over time, it has become a widely recognized friendship anthem used in various settings, from schools to summer camps and beyond.
Its enduring popularity lies in its universal message—no matter where you are or how old you get, friendships are an essential part of life. The song also carries a strong message about inclusivity and the idea that new relationships don’t diminish the value of existing ones but add to the richness of life.
Ways to Use the Song:
- Classroom Activities:
Teachers can use the song to initiate discussions about friendship, empathy, and inclusion. It’s a perfect icebreaker for the start of a school year when children are meeting new classmates. - Scouting and Camps:
Often sung around campfires or in group settings, this song can be used to strengthen bonds between campers or scouts. The simple melody and heartfelt message make it an ideal sing-along for creating a sense of togetherness. - Round Singing:
The song is often sung in rounds, which is a fun way for children to practice cooperation and harmony. This makes it not only a lesson in friendship but also a valuable exercise in musical collaboration. - Celebrations of Friendship:
Whether for Friendship Day, a class party, or any event focused on teamwork and community, “Make New Friends But Keep the Old” can be a centerpiece for discussions, activities, and group bonding.
Conclusion:
“Make New Friends But Keep the Old” is a timeless song that speaks to the heart of what it means to build and nurture friendships. Its gentle melody, meaningful lyrics, and tradition of being sung in groups make it an enduring classic that brings people together. By reminding us to cherish both new and old friendships, the song instills values of loyalty, connection, and inclusivity in listeners of all ages.
Fun Facts:
- Scouting Tradition: The song is particularly well-known in Girl Scouts and Girl Guides, where it is often used as a bonding activity at campfires or special events.
- Sung in Rounds: One of the unique aspects of the song is that it’s often sung in rounds, making it a fun group activity.
- Global Reach: Over time, the song has been translated and adapted into various languages, making its message of friendship a global one.
“Make New Friends But Keep the Old” continues to inspire people of all ages to value and celebrate the friendships in their lives, creating a legacy of unity, warmth, and connection.