How did Henry James use a “central intelligence” to tell stories?

Henry James utilized the "central intelligence" as a narrative technique to shift storytelling away from an impersonal, objective account toward a subjective experience filtered through a character's mind. Rather than presenting events as an omniscient author, James employed this "central intelligence"—acting as his concrete deputy or delegate—to record impressions of the affair at hand.1

This method allowed James to combine the advantages of impressionism with the mobility of a traditional narrator. By adhering closely to a specific angle of vision, he could withhold information from the reader, revealing only what the chosen character perceives. This approach emphasizes the developing consciousness and moral education of his subjects, as the narrative is restricted to the character's unique insights, perceptions, and emotions. Through this technique, James explored the psychological processes of his characters, effectively translating reality through the lens of their individual experiences.123