The Green Man emerges as a unique contribution to the "ghost story" tradition, a genre famously mastered by M. R. James, whose works are celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and atmospheric settings, often involving scholarly backdrops like college libraries. Kingsley Amis, in crafting his narrative, not only pays homage to James’s style but also introduces new dimensions that set his work apart. The novel infuses elements of sexuality, deep character exploration, and skepticism—components that diverge from the classic "Jamesian" ghost story.

This innovation serves a purpose when viewed within the broader context of Amis’s literary evolution. During the late 1960s, a period marked by intense political upheaval, Amis began to distance himself from overtly political narratives. Instead, he shifted focus towards more personal and philosophical explorations, reflecting a belief that the novel should grapple with the development and maintenance of individual philosophy amidst widespread skepticism and moral decay.

Central to this thematic shift is the character Allington, who navigates a complex web of existential questions. Despite confronting skepticism and fear, he finds a semblance of personal creed that affirms his convictions. His journey to reclaim his daughter, both in a literal and emotional sense, underscores the novel’s triumph in reclaiming belief from the depths of nihilism.

The Green Man can be examined alongside other notable works by Amis, which similarly engage with themes of age, mortality, and spirituality. Novels such as The Anti-Death League (1966), Ending Up (1975), and The Alteration (1976) further illuminate Amis’s preoccupation with these enduring questions, showcasing his ability to weave complex philosophical inquiries within the framework of engaging narratives.