Pull cord

Alright, I don't know anything about repairing mowers. The pull chord will not retract on it's own and when I am able to get it tight enough The engine seems to not want to turn over. What could cause this? Please help!!! My lawn is only partially mowed.

A picture is worth a thousand words so I would suggest that you search youtube videos for your type of mower and watch some of the ways to replace the pull cord. Your recoil spring may be damaged as well so make sure to check the spring. After you watch some of the videos and have familiarized yourself with the process, come back here and ask some specific questions and we'll do our best to help you.