Yes, the nib is the pointy end!

There are many different types of nibs that would suit you better than what you were likely using. 

My guess is it was an extra fine or fine point. They can be scratchy, depending on the grind and the paper you were using. 

It sounds to me like you would be better suited to a medium or broad nib, again, depending on the paper. You want to be starting with good paper. 80gsm or higher is where I would suggest. You can actually find printer paper in that range just as an example. 

If you're looking for more line variation then a softer nib like a gold nib or what is called a "flex nib" can be used. You won't get a huge variation as you still shouldn't be pressing super hard on any nib, but it's more than a regular grind will do. 

Then you get into specialty grinds, but that's more advanced stuff I haven't gotten into just yet.