Regarding the answer by Helen Glazer to Paula Simon's commentary on "no problem" ("The problem with 'no problem,'" Jan. 25), I agree with Ms. Simon's judgment of this phrase, but I would go even further. The problem with "no problem" is the idea that what you did may indeed have been a problem, but I have generously judged that it is not, or it is but I forgive you. This implies that you might be at fault, and I am somehow morally superior to you.
As to Ms. Glazer's response, I think she is missing the point. In Italian or other languages, replying "it's nothing" is to say that what he or she had done was nothing special and no thanks were needed. With "no problem," the emphasis is on the other person's actions, whether or not they were a problem.
"You're welcome" is a courteous response that gives one a good feeling, whereas "no problem" is a little annoying and gives rather the idea of being judged, so I can well understand Ms. Simon's dislike of the term.
Donald Abbott, Ellicott City