"If the only new thing we have to offer is an improved version of the past, then today can only be inferior to yesterday. Hypnotized by images of the past, we risk losing all capacity for creative change"

Robert Hewison's quote is a thoughtful commentary on the risk of stagnancy presented by clinging to previous accomplishments rather than pursuing unique ideas and modifications. By specifying, "If the only new thing we have to provide is an enhanced variation of the past, then today can only be inferior to the other day", Hewison highlights a prevalent risk in imagination, development, and progress: the temptation to rely exclusively on existing models or concepts, merely improving them without basically reassessing them.

The expression "enhanced variation of the past" recommends an unwillingness to move beyond the familiar and the comfy. This state of mind can hinder development because it values the security of known successes over the potential of untried, original concepts. By implying that today may be "inferior to the other day", Hewison warns of the possibility that such a mindset might result in a decline in imaginative vitality. The idea is that by residing in the shadow of previous successes, contemporary efforts might fail to meet the progressing obstacles and chances present in the current world.

The latter part of the quote, "Hypnotized by images of the past, we risk losing all capacity for creative change", works as a cautionary call to action. The metaphor "hypnotized by images" suggests a state of fixation or magic with what has come before, which can dull our senses to the demands of the present and the opportunities of the future. When people end up being too focused on duplicating or partially improving previous successes, they might lose the ability to innovate freely or to adapt to new circumstances, thus stymying development.

In general, Hewison's quote is an urging to stabilize the appreciation for past accomplishments with the nerve and creativity to imagine and carry out something completely new. Real progress lies not simply in adjustment of what already exists, but in bold to venture into uncharted areas, where authentic development and transformation can happen.