I give up :(

I am using PHP 5.01, MySQL 4.0.20a, and Apache 1.3.31. I initially downloaded WordPress 1.2, and fumbled with the installation for two nights. First, I had nothing but problems with WordPress when loading PHP as a module rather than as CGI. I finally settled on loading PHP as CGI despite the security risks. I was able to get as far as Step 3 after having manually created the MySQL database. I didn’t know what privileges to give to my WordPress database account. After one complaint after another, I gave in and made the account a super-user. I still ended up with blank page renders. I’ve tried relocating php_mysql.dll to no avail.
I discovered that WP 1.2 is best used on PHP4, and that I would need to downloaded a Nightly 1.3 release for use on PHP5. I recreated my database, downloaded and installed the latest WP 1.3. WordPress still gave me only blank pages. I found it necessary to reload PHP support as a module rather than as CGI. This made it possible for me to complete Step 3. But I am now stuck at my new WP login screen. If I attempt to login, I will get a CGI/FastCGI error, resulting in that horrible Internal Server Error. I know Apache is working. I am sure MySQL is working. I am pretty confident that PHP is configured correctly.
Since WordPress is server friendly, I would feel selfish if I didn’t at least try it out. However, I found installing Greymatter to be far easier and quicker. I simply haven’t the time or patience left to try to make WP work. So I’ll instead focus the effort on GM, or try out MT. What would have helped me would have been a detailed installation guide that takes me through creating the MySQL database and account, setting up appropriate account privileges, and setting up PHP for use with Apache. It seems like all the focus is being put on customizing wp-config.php. Anyway, good luck WordPress, everyone. I’m hoping to try it out again someday.