Help Me to Understand You

Ok, I have to make an admission now. I do not understand this website! I have wanted to enter the world of blogging for some time now, but am continually put off by the vast amount of associated jargon. What's a blogroll? What's "Atom"? Why can't I search for blogs? How do I navigate the various perplexing options offered when I try to subscribe to a blog? Why can't I post comments as a blogger, and end up posting as 'anonymous' on my own posts?!

Some kind of guidance would be appreciated.