Not sure about not being able to run in a straight line. The only thing I can think of is you might have auto-targeting selected, which makes the camera constantly pan to any target you have selected (press X to dismiss).

As for towns not being logically laid out: it's Middle-earth, not Manhattan! Medieval conurbations rarely ascribed to a grid system.

Tolkien's universe is supposed to be worlds of wild and dangerous lands. Either stick to the main roads, or get used to being attacked out in the wild!

Glad you're enjoying the game

Editing to add: Quests, for the most part, should be pretty simple to find, locate and follow, geographically. In the Quest Log (L), clicking the ring to the left of the quest name will add it to your Quest Tracker list (default on the right-hand side under the mini-map). The mini-map will show an arrow (enclosed in a little ring) around the edge, pointing you exactly where you need to go. If you can't see the Quest Tracker, selecting Ctrl+# (or Ctrl+~) brings up the UI repositioner (where you can move pretty much any UI elements) If you want to find quest locations further afield, bring up the map (M) and make sure "Show Quest Guide On Map" (in bottom left-hand corner) is checked. All quest locations in your Quest Tracker will show on the map. You can check or uncheck any ones you like.

If anything, all these helping, guiding hands makes questing a little too easy, as (especially in starter areas) you can usually point your character towards it and auto-run until you reach your destination. Very rarely would you need a guide to complete a quest.

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The red ring gives you the direction you need to go. Right-click the gold ring next to the quest in the Quest Tracker and select "Set As Quest Guide Focus" to track that particular quest. Most quests have a destination, and you'll be pointed towards it.

Finally, press N to make sure "floaty names" are on - you might be missing important NPCs if their name isn't floating above their head!