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Table topics is regarded by many as the most fun part of the meeting. The reason is that the Table Topics Master can (and often does) introduce light-hearted topics. However, despite this Table Topics can be the most challenging part of the evening because you can easily be caught off-guard.
The concept is simple; Table Topics provide the opportunity for selected club members to approach the lectern and speak for two minute on a subject of which they have no prior warning. It requires a nimble thought process and verbal dexterity that can catch out even the most seasoned members. Don't worry, guests are only invited to participate in Table Topics if they agree beforehand.
Imagine for instance, being asked to review a book entitled "The Pre-Schooler's Guide To Explosives", or explain how you would talk your way out of a parking ticket. Your only opportunity to gather your thoughts are the few seconds between hearing your name called and walking to the lectern.

The Table Topics Master prepares subjects ahead of time and is free to call upon anyone (except guests; see above) to participate. The topics may be serious, frivolous, or anywhere in between. One recent Table Topics Master produced a series of household items and asked participants to do a "sales pitch" for them. On another occasion, participants were asked to create a 'progressive' story, each having to invent a chapter to follow the preceeding ones.

Hialrie Burke shows what she means...

Fortunately, one of the rules of Table Topics is that there is absolutely no requirement to tell the truth; though often the made up speeches are difficult to tell apart from the real ones.

Asheville Toastmasters has many skillful speakers, so listening to them tackle Table Topics is usually very amusing, often insightful and sometimes even profound.

- contributed by Keith Challenger -