FabSwingers.com > Forums > The Lounge > Single life
Single life
Jump to: Newest in thread
I've had several long term relationships, but have lived on ma own for the past 7 years. If the right lady walked into my life, then I would consider living together, depending on her cooking skills and how often she farts  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I’m a flip side on this!
Having been married then divorced and only having 2 long term relationships in my life... I’m not sure I know what I want yet.
I mean obviously there are ideals.... I’ve had a fab fling live with me but it got boring really quickly and he lived with me so it’s not like I could just text him and say you’re not for me.
He moved out, or rather he packed up for work and never came home.
I did like someone living with me, having someone else there to adult on occasion but I’m not sure I want it all!!
It’s annoying when I’m horny though... maybe a lodger with a good cock is all I need lol
Picky are we women folk  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Aww been married too long wanted out in relationship wreck my head and single liked it now bored of been lonely, want company but obviously can’t so follow guidelines and see what happens  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Aww been married too long wanted out in relationship wreck my head and single liked it now bored of been lonely, want company but obviously can’t so follow guidelines and see what happens "
Hugs
When this over I think a lot of people are going to get some serious slutting on  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"I will probably stay single.
I've been single for so long, I don't think I could make room in my life for a man"
I think it would be an effort after being single so long.... |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Love the freedom, miss the company. Been 4 years since I split with the ex wife. Plenty of funbaling the way. Not sure I'd ever fully move in with someone again. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"I will probably stay single.
I've been single for so long, I don't think I could make room in my life for a man
I think it would be an effort after being single so long...."
It's effort I don't want to make. I like life as it is. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"I will probably stay single.
I've been single for so long, I don't think I could make room in my life for a man
I think it would be an effort after being single so long....
It's effort I don't want to make. I like life as it is."
I'm pretty much the same, although I'm not looking for a long term relationship, I wouldn't rule it out of the equation.
After 8 years on your own you kinda get used to waking up and finding everything exactly where you left it  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"I will probably stay single.
I've been single for so long, I don't think I could make room in my life for a man
I think it would be an effort after being single so long....
It's effort I don't want to make. I like life as it is.
I'm pretty much the same, although I'm not looking for a long term relationship, I wouldn't rule it out of the equation.
After 8 years on your own you kinda get used to waking up and finding everything exactly where you left it "
I've ruled it out. I can't be arsed with having to consider someone else |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
We’ve been married 6 together for 12 and I (mr) used to work away during the week a lot so we were both kind of living a single life.
I don’t miss the single life since settling down with Mrs CT. We know each other well enough that we give each other space if they need it |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"We’ve been married 6 together for 12 and I (mr) used to work away during the week a lot so we were both kind of living a single life.
I don’t miss the single life since settling down with Mrs CT. We know each other well enough that we give each other space if they need it "
Awesome |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"I’m a flip side on this!
Having been married then divorced and only having 2 long term relationships in my life... I’m not sure I know what I want yet.
I mean obviously there are ideals.... I’ve had a fab fling live with me but it got boring really quickly and he lived with me so it’s not like I could just text him and say you’re not for me.
He moved out, or rather he packed up for work and never came home.
I did like someone living with me, having someone else there to adult on occasion but I’m not sure I want it all!!
It’s annoying when I’m horny though... maybe a lodger with a good cock is all I need lol
Picky are we women folk " not to be rude but just a bit lol |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Aww been married too long wanted out in relationship wreck my head and single liked it now bored of been lonely, want company but obviously can’t so follow guidelines and see what happens " hopefully it all will all be over soon |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Aww been married too long wanted out in relationship wreck my head and single liked it now bored of been lonely, want company but obviously can’t so follow guidelines and see what happens
Hugs
When this over I think a lot of people are going to get some serious slutting on " I bet me to |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Been single for 4 years now. It has its good and the bad really. If the opportunity presents itself and I find someone special then that's great but if not.. I'll just wait patiently" same here pal
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
I've been single that long not sure if i could cope living with a man again especially if he leaves the toilet seat up lol x my daughter is getting older now few more years and im sure she'll be leaving home. So I
think it's time to get myself back out there!! but where do you even start to look for a decent genuine guy??  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago
Milton keynes |
"Been single for 4 years now. It has its good and the bad really. If the opportunity presents itself and I find someone special then that's great but if not.. I'll just wait patiently same here pal"
I'm sure the right person for you is just round the corner from you bud.
Speaking of which.. thats my downside too, you get chatting to someone that you think could be the one then luck has it.. they live too far from you. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"I've been single that long not sure if i could cope living with a man again especially if he leaves the toilet seat up lol x my daughter is getting older now few more years and im sure she'll be leaving home. So I
think it's time to get myself back out there!! but where do you even start to look for a decent genuine guy?? " one here hello lol and I clean up after my self  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *roticusCouple
over a year ago
Porthmadog |
Semi-single here. Lucy and I meet up two or three times a week for rampant and very enjoyable sex. We both have an outside life though.
I don't miss the end of the old relationship and the alcoholic madness I was putting up with, and I would be very careful not to get into a relationship like that again. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago
Milton keynes |
"10 years on my own and I'm pretty used to it but of course I still get lonely . Not sure I could live with anyone full time now... Maybe one day though "
Never say never who knows what the future holds really |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"10 years on my own and I'm pretty used to it but of course I still get lonely . Not sure I could live with anyone full time now... Maybe one day though
Never say never who knows what the future holds really "
True  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Semi-single here. Lucy and I meet up two or three times a week for rampant and very enjoyable sex. We both have an outside life though.
I don't miss the end of the old relationship and the alcoholic madness I was putting up with, and I would be very careful not to get into a relationship like that again." really it works put me off for life |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single."
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
" just be honest it’s the way forward lol |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
"
I thought fab would be the answer as I’m more likely to get chatting openly about swinging here than out in the field.
I’m not sure if swinging is something couples enter after agreeing they would like to or if one can meet a single swinger and form that “relationship”
I guess I’ll just keep seeing where life takes me x |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago
Milton keynes |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol"
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol"
Hmmmmm.....I fear that could result in a swift boot to the bollocks!
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago
Milton keynes |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol
Hmmmmm.....I fear that could result in a swift boot to the bollocks!
"
Obviously put it more subtle than what I just did lol but I suppose it depends on the person doesn't it? Some may be intrigued, some may not.
Question though, if you were seeing someone and they aren't into swinging, would you leave the swinging world? |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol
Hmmmmm.....I fear that could result in a swift boot to the bollocks!
Obviously put it more subtle than what I just did lol but I suppose it depends on the person doesn't it? Some may be intrigued, some may not.
Question though, if you were seeing someone and they aren't into swinging, would you leave the swinging world? "
If I fell in love then yes I would.
Swinging is fun and I enjoy meeting people and of course the great sex but if I fell in love then I’d be hers one hundred percent.
Ooooh I feel all silly now  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago
Milton keynes |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol
Hmmmmm.....I fear that could result in a swift boot to the bollocks!
Obviously put it more subtle than what I just did lol but I suppose it depends on the person doesn't it? Some may be intrigued, some may not.
Question though, if you were seeing someone and they aren't into swinging, would you leave the swinging world?
If I fell in love then yes I would.
Swinging is fun and I enjoy meeting people and of course the great sex but if I fell in love then I’d be hers one hundred percent.
Ooooh I feel all silly now "
Nah, don't be.. I would do exactly the same so you're not alone with that kind of thinking |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol
Hmmmmm.....I fear that could result in a swift boot to the bollocks!
Obviously put it more subtle than what I just did lol but I suppose it depends on the person doesn't it? Some may be intrigued, some may not.
Question though, if you were seeing someone and they aren't into swinging, would you leave the swinging world? "
Now that is the big question yes , I'm not sure I could settle down with someone who isn't into the lifestyle as theres too many unfulfilled fantasies that have to happen . Maybe if she was so so special then perhaps .
But atm I can't see myself settling for a non swinger no
 |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago
Milton keynes |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol
Hmmmmm.....I fear that could result in a swift boot to the bollocks!
Obviously put it more subtle than what I just did lol but I suppose it depends on the person doesn't it? Some may be intrigued, some may not.
Question though, if you were seeing someone and they aren't into swinging, would you leave the swinging world?
Now that is the big question yes , I'm not sure I could settle down with someone who isn't into the lifestyle as theres too many unfulfilled fantasies that have to happen . Maybe if she was so so special then perhaps .
But atm I can't see myself settling for a non swinger no
"
Fair enough though. Nah, I can definitely see myself leaving the swing world if I would of thought she was special enough |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
In the main yes ! Would never hitch up eith anyone permanent ever again! Have had 2 relationships my whole life! The way I see it now is I can have the good bits with a fwb without the mundane! Win win x |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I love being single. I can do what I want when I want (at least I could). I’m not a person who needs emotional attachments (as my ex wives would confirm) |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"It’s a tricky one for me as I’d like to meet someone who’d be interested in the swing lifestyle but I’m ok with being single.
Oh yes that would be ideal. How do you tell someone new you enjoy the swinging lifestyle?? Be perfect to find someone from fab for a relationship x
just be honest it’s the way forward lol
Maybe not mention it on the 1st date though. Save it for the 3rd one during a game of crazy golf along the lines of "speaking of putting balls in holes, did I tell you..."
It can go either way really lol
Hmmmmm.....I fear that could result in a swift boot to the bollocks!
Obviously put it more subtle than what I just did lol but I suppose it depends on the person doesn't it? Some may be intrigued, some may not.
Question though, if you were seeing someone and they aren't into swinging, would you leave the swinging world?
Now that is the big question yes , I'm not sure I could settle down with someone who isn't into the lifestyle as theres too many unfulfilled fantasies that have to happen . Maybe if she was so so special then perhaps .
But atm I can't see myself settling for a non swinger no
Fair enough though. Nah, I can definitely see myself leaving the swing world if I would of thought she was special enough "
Well I hope it happens for you one day buddy , we all deserve happiness  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Mostly I enjoy being single, although I do miss physical intimacy at times.
After my divorce 6 years ago I was terrified of being single as I had been in a relationship since i was 17 and it was a massive unknown. I got into another relationship 9 months after with someone from here, which was on and off until last October. It didn't work for various reasons and I much prefer being alone to putting up with unreasonable behaviour just to be with someone. With my kids being the ages they are and the additional needs of the one with autism I haven't got the head space or emotional resources for a partner. I like my own company and the freedom to do whatever I like when the kids are at their dad's. To be emotionally self-sufficient and content is a big development for me and not something I'm willing to surrender any time soon. An FWB, with 'friend' being the operative word, would be ideal to scratch the sex and intimacy itch when covid restrictions are lifted. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *host63Man
over a year ago
Bedfont Feltham |
"I will probably stay single.
I've been single for so long, I don't think I could make room in my life for a man"
I am.the same I am ok with my own company and have never been someone who needed a woman in my life to complete, or look after me.
Been single most.of my adult life, though I do wonder sometimes if I have made the right decision. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I miss intimacy.
But enjoy most things about being single.
Intamacy isn't just about sex it's having someone to share your life with - but it comes at a price that I'm not sure I can pay again.
I definitely don't want to live with anyone - or be involved with anyone else's family / kids etc
But someone to have intimacy with would be perfect. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
I’ve been single for 3 years and I’m far happier with my freedom and independence now rather than when I was married.
I also feel less lonely now too as I can talk to who I want when I want, and have loads more friends(some fwb).
I can’t see myself in another relationship but never say never, and if anyone wants to join me for an adventure, or make some memories, then I’m available.  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Aww been married too long wanted out in relationship wreck my head and single liked it now bored of been lonely, want company but obviously can’t so follow guidelines and see what happens " This pretty much sums it up for me as well. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Most of the time i like being single but theres a few times i wish there was someone who wants to be with me to share everything with"
I have thought that at times in my life however I have come to understand that I do not want permanence. I really do think that what is needed in society is more kibbutzy type stuff where people meet and socialise...... living as nuclear families in streets ISNT good for human beings.
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Separated/divorced 12 years, two relationships that lasted 2 years and alone for the last 5 years..
My ideal is we both have our own places and can spend a couple of nights at each others leaving enough time to be free. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"
Separated/divorced 12 years, two relationships that lasted 2 years and alone for the last 5 years..
My ideal is we both have our own places and can spend a couple of nights at each others leaving enough time to be free."
Have free time or be free to shag around ?
See I can believe in commitment but not in living together |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *otSoPoshWoman
over a year ago
In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon |
In a lot of ways, yes I love it. But that's partly a reaction to bad relationships in the past.
There's work needs to be done on me before I can be ready to have a relationship again, so I'm not in the right place to have a relationship with anyone. I'd like to say that if the right person came along now I'd jump in with both feet, but I know that as much as I'd like to that's a bad idea.
Certainly not against the idea for the future though. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Single life do you enjoy it or not ?"
Not really, but I also found out that I am probably not suitable for a too close relationship and trying to keep a distance. So it is better with a number of close friends and I hope to establish my connection with my FWB after lock-down or find new ones. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
I'm quite happy on my own and enjoying single life. I've had quite a few vanilla relationships, with boring sex. I would prefer my next relationship, to have that swinging element so I get best of both worlds. Not in any rush to find said person. But wouldn't rule it out should I meet someone sooner rather than later. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Suppose I have the best of both worlds, we only live together at weekends and holidays, he goes off to his own house and work on monday mornings, its nice having someone there at weekends, its equally nice starfishing and watching what i want in bed during the week,sometimes I go stop at his too, we have been together like this for 9 years now and I cant see it changing anytime soon  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Single life do you enjoy it or not ?"
Generally - yes - but no right now!
Pre-pandemic it meant, within reason, going where I wanted, when I wanted and with whom I wanted. It also meant having a (small) variety of sexual partners to have fun with.
Now it means a total lack of like minded company, affection or intimacy - and a total reliance on my wand for sexual release. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Single = safe
OK I'll have nobody to clatter a burglar round the head and have to fight them myself.
OK I'll have nobody to help me lift heavy things.
OK I'll have nobody to share birthdays, Xmas and all those other things with.
OK I'll have nobody to cook for or cook for me.
OK I go days at times without using my voice and only my thumbs to type.
OK I have nobody to share glances with, smiles with, walks with.
OK, I have nobody to hold me when I'm sad.
OK, I might fall down the stairs, paralyse myself in the process and spend a week stuck and dying in my own pee and poop before I breathe my last breath
But, I also have nobody to fight with, nobody to lie to me, nobody to clash values with, nobody making me feel shit by comparing me to other people, nobody to worry whether they're really at work or if they're cheating on me, nobody to abuse me and my trust, nobody who's too busy on their phone and not noticing I need a hug, nobody putting their dick in someone else when my dog is on deaths door and I'm a mess and really need them, nobody I'm second guessing their motives or what they meant by that last comment.
I'll take dying at the bottom of the stairs.... at least I'll do that with peace of mind. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *an4funMan
over a year ago
london |
I've never believed in the notion of "the one". I just don't think we are made that way. We being humans. There will be exceptions.
I love being single but also appreciate how wonderful an exclusive relationship can be. But that feeling is not a long term one. Once the honeymoon period is over and reality sets in then... |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By *DW1983Man
over a year ago
Aberdeen, Sheffield, Brighton |
I was wondering how to answer, and lots this struck a chord (snipped for brevity):
"Single = safe
OK I'll have nobody to cook for or cook for me.
OK I go days at times without using my voice and only my thumbs to type.
OK I have nobody to share glances with, smiles with, walks with.
OK, I have nobody to hold me when I'm sad.
OK, I might fall down the stairs, paralyse myself in the process and spend a week stuck and dying before I breathe my last breath
But, I also have nobody to fight with...
"
It scares me to look at the big picture, to think of getting old and being alone and lonely. But I don't want kids, and marriage holds little appeal. I had a great relationship with a lovely woman, intelligent, fun, easy to get along with, and very attractive. She wanted kids though, and we found ourselves growing apart. We're still close friends at least.
But I'm in no rush to find anyone else. I miss the intimacy and having someone to share trips, holidays or meals with. I don't regret being with her and wouldn't change that, but at the same time I think I'm one of those people who was made to be single. It works. It has pros and cons, as does a relationship. But I'd rather just be me. Less risk of drama, and no worry of someone being upset when I'm gone. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I love being single, not having to compromise or consider someone else, starfishing in bed, watching my choice on TV and having sex with whom I want, when I want (pre Covid).
But I do miss intimacy, having someone to do things with, morning sex, cuddles etc.
I think I'd like someone who's happy living separately but we can have time together, do all the fun stuff without arguing over bills and who doesn't pull their weight around the house. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"
Separated/divorced 12 years, two relationships that lasted 2 years and alone for the last 5 years..
My ideal is we both have our own places and can spend a couple of nights at each others leaving enough time to be free.
Have free time or be free to shag around ?
See I can believe in commitment but not in living together"
Nope, one woman is enough for me  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
» Add a new message to this topic