Reading the Quran for the first time.

Hello. I've decided to read the Quran for the first time. I have two questions if you don't mind.

First, which English translation is recommended, if it matters. I have a translation published by Princeton University Press, translated by Ahmed Ali. I have another translation I picked up from the Islamic Center near my university campus published by Book of Signs Foundation, translated by Professor Syed Vickar Ahamed.

Second, what are the main themes or main message of Surah 2.

Thank you, in advance, for any replies.