Though cowards flinch, & traitors sneer, We'll keep the red flag flying here.
Somehow it (and "traitors" as well) is lacking in precision, as well as having a history of misuse. The Communard's heroism in Luxemburg's reference is primarily to their original act of seizing power (the need for physical courage came later). The Mensheviks showed cowardice in their refusal of power -- and they have been defended by some as "more correct" than the Bolsheviks. But their action makes sense only if history is predictable. The attitude of Luxemburg (and Lenin) shows the essence of the courage needed: We may well fail, but we must seize the time. Only cowards (??) will not venture to be wrong!
There will never be a time when victory is predictable. That was the heart of Luxemburg's words. The 'cowardice' I want a word for is this fear of being wrong; this need for a road map, a scenario, for assured success.
Carrol