Hi..

I Had the same problem few years ago.
If u see the first line dark, and the second bright,
it means that u didn't init the LCD,
only connect it to power.
When I Had this problem, I used 89c55, and tried to use
minimum external componments (Actually nothing).
When I tried to connect the LCD, it didn't work.
I tried other ways of init, and connections,
Finally I connect it thru 74323 (Addr. Latch) and a
miracle !!! it works, I Donnow why, but it works only with
74323 for me.
I Used the same functions code, for the both wayz, same
delay function, same write function ...

Good luck & Have a nice day.
OK