Which author is known for the phrase “The best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men / Gang aft a-gley”?

The phrase “The best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men / Gang aft a-gley” comes from the poem "To a Mouse," written by Robert Burns. This line reflects the theme of the unpredictability of life and the tendency for plans, no matter how well thought out, to go awry. Burns employs a Scots dialect in his poetry, and this particular line emphasizes a universal truth about human experience and the fragility of our intentions, as symbolized by the fate of both mice and men.

This phrase has become quite famous and is often quoted in various contexts to illustrate the idea that despite careful planning, outcomes can be unpredictable. The depth of its meaning is rooted in Burns' ability to encapsulate complex emotions and philosophical ideas through simple, relatable imagery.