When a Spice Girls reunion was announced just a few months ago, people understandably lost their shit. Even if pop’s preeminent ‘90s girl-group recently reformed for a performance at the 2012 London Olympics, it was not enough to satisfy the demands of the hordes of nostalgia-starved fans desperate for a chance to hear “Wannabe” in person.

So it was something of a shock to hear that both Victoria Beckham (Posh Spice) and Mel C (Sporty Spice) were sitting the latest reunion out. Though details behind the decision have been scarce, Mel has just written an in-depth essay for LOVE magazine explaining her choice, as well as her thoughts on fame, her glory days with the girls and her upcoming solo album.

On her decision to turn down the new reunion:

"I’d love to play huge arenas across the world, sing our brilliantly bonkers pop songs and relive our former glory. It is of course a very lucrative opportunity too. But we were a five-piece band. Didn’t we reach a peak with the Olympics? There’s a lot to be said for bowing out on a high note."

On fame:

"Like the rest of the Spice Girls I learnt very early on that you can’t take one slice of the pie when it comes to fame. You have to eat the whole thing."

On her struggle of being in the public eye:

"I struggled with many aspects of being in the public eye but after 20 years, motherhood and lots of therapy I’m more at peace with the reality of achieving my childhood ambition."

On social media:

"If I wasn’t who I am I’d never be on social media – the entire thing bothers me. Don’t get me wrong – I get it and the power it holds is essential in our modern day world. But I am a child of the 80’s."

Her advice for her fans:

"Put your phone down. Write with a pen. Keep creating. Never stop learning. Stay positive."

On today's celebrities:

"Wanting to be famous just to be famous without talent? How does that even work? It’s like going for a burger but only eating the bun – you’re missing the best part."

On her new career as a solo artist:

"Also, I am under no illusion that my solo work will ever come close to a fraction of the impact that we make as the Spice Girls. I love the band I am beyond proud of my past and will always embrace and celebrate being a Spice Girl, It’s what I am."

Be sure to read her full essay over on LOVE Magazine's website.

In related news, Blac Chyna was profiled for the new issue of Paper Mag and looks absolutely stunning on the cover. Check it out right here.