If I remember correctly, if any of this really matters anyway, in the beginning of the movie we first hear Hunter's characters thoughts. She speaks of not talking since she was, I think, 6. Yet, she had this love, the musician, obviously after that. I remember this because during the movie when her child spoke of Hunter's love, I thought how did they communicate? Then her daughter said that they didnt need words to talk, they spoke through music. So, my point is... the relationship with the other man had no effect on her speaking. Her muteness occured at a much earlier age. I dont remember any indication of sexual abuse either. So, I dont know why she is silent. Who knows really? And, why is it so important? C. Oliver NOTCLO.LSUVM.SNCC.LSU.EDU