Ang Duong wrote during a time when traditional Buddhist Theravada was influential in Cambodia and when indulgence on physical beauty was strictly moderated.
[5] King Ang Duong also wrote another novel 'Puthisen Neang Kongrey admiring a faithful wife ready to sacrifice her life for her husband.
Neang Kakey was also inspired by the Thai folk tale Kaki Klon Suphap written by Hon Bunlong known as Phra Khlang who lived from 1750 to 1805, a famous writer at the Bangkok court.
The two versions of the story are not identical and Ang Duong did not author a mere translation as important differences exist in the plot.
The story of Neang Kakey despite its legendary character is a valuable witness to the life and culture of Thai and Khmer society at the beginning of the 19th century.
This reflects the content of a law promulgated by King Ang Duong called Kram bier ('Treatise on gaming'), according to which women who frequented public houses could not be dishonoured in word or deed, as they are not considered respectable[5] Educational tales intended to teach young women the good behaviour are common in Khmer literature.
The narrative is in tone with the recommendations of the Chbab Srey, a code of conduct for Khmer women which Ang Duong will also contributed to.
Musicians generally bring back the "phleng khmer" type of music in its present form to the time of King Trâsâk Phaem.