cookiedough

Hi everyone! I just joined this forum and I know nothing about composing/writing music. I sing and I would like to write songs for myself. Unfortunately. I haven't taken any music theory class so I don't really have any music knowledge foundation :( I am hoping to get some advice and suggestions about websites/books that can help people get started with music writing. The genre I am interested in is pop. I have been checking out softwares and hardwares. I believe I can compose either using hardwares or softwares? (or do I actually need both?) - If I go with the hardware route, what hardwares would I need? Is it a synthesizer and an arranger? Do I need both pieces? (I am not quite sure about the difference between them) Will I also need a workstation? Do I need a computer at all if I use hardwares? - If I decide to use softwares, is a sequencing software (such as Cakewalk, Cubase) and sample libraries all I need? Do sequencing softwares take care of everything from composing, editing, mixing, to arranging and mastering? Is Protools a sequencing software also and does it receive a higher recommendation among music professionals compared to other softwares? Thanks for reading and thanks for any help in advance! :) I am sorry if my questions sound silly! :( Hope you all have a good weekend! :)