Where is the menu on windows 8 desktop

Question

I purchased a new HP desktop in Nov.  I can only check email and use skype.  I want to use word to write stories and work on my family geneology.  Where is the menu that has file so I can click on it.  As much as I paid for this piecer of junk, yoou would think I coould have a simple way to use word and have a start button like on my old windows professioonal 2000 and vista.  This is the 3rd program I have had on my 3rd coomputer and right now I sure hate windows 8.

Answer 1

germnh,
I think I do not understand your use of "word".
Context:  I spent the larger part of the afternoon yesterday trying to figure how to get"word" on my computer.   I still have my old one at one end of my large desk.  I keep it for when grandchildren come to play games on.  I just pluged it in and did some editing to a story I was working on.
On the off-chance that you are talking about a text editor, perhaps you are talking about WordPad ??
You can add a "Tile" for WordPad and most other programs to your Start Screen -- the Screen is configurable and can be made to look and act how you like.  Not interested in customizing the Screen?  Then just type the word / program / setting you seek on the Start Screen and let the Search seek and provide the results -- click on the program to start it. 
Want that program to "stick" to your Start Screen?  Right click on the program and "Pin" the program to Start.
It does occur to me that I may not be able to assist in a manner that benefits you.
Commentary:
Windows 8 is thought to be an improvement by some, disparaged by many, and gladly embraced by others.  HP sells computers that offer Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 -- HP also sells computers with Linux for those who desire this Operating System.
Windows 8.1 appears to be an improvement over Windows 8.   I like Windows 8.1 -- I do admit that I might be one of maybe twenty-five people in the US that really likes Windows 8, so my views are biased. 
Some computers can be upgraded easily to Windows 8.1 while others will fail to upgrade gracefully, and a number of systems will not upgrade at all.  This is not just an HP issue; most computer manufacturers offer value added software and drivers to their computers -- and it is frequently these drivers and software that need to be rewritten when a computer is changing Operating Systems.   The drivers / software may for Windows 8.1 are offered for a number of computers with more being added as they are available.
People who wish to change their Operating System from what was installed when they bought the computer must understand that the Update process is voluntary.  The invitation to "update to Windows 8.1" comes from Microsoft -- HP did not send the message and warns against the "click and away we go" update.
Documents to READ BEFORE updating:
Update to Windows 8.1: FAQ
Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant
Follow the on-screen steps. Upgrade Assistant scans your PC to make sure it meets the system requirements. It also checks to see if your programs and devices are compatible with Windows 8.1.
Windows Compatibility Center
Find compatibility information and get Windows compatible device drivers, app updates, and downloads.
Update to Windows 8.1 from Windows 8
The Update to Windows 8.1 from Windows 8 is free -- on your Start Screen, click on Store
Click the Kudos Star!
It is a nice way to say “Thank You” for the help.
Although I strive to reflect HP's best practices, I do not work for HP. 
Kind Regards,
Dragon-Fur