The meaning of this sentence is open to interpretation, but it's generally seen as symbolizing the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of hardship. Here's why:
* The "water to drink" is a metaphor for the basic needs of survival. Even though George and Lennie dream of a better life, they ultimately return to the harsh reality of their existence. The water represents their need to simply survive, even if it means living in a world that denies them their dreams.
* The repetition of the phrase "went down to the water to drink" echoes the cyclical nature of their lives. They are essentially back where they started, with no progress towards their goals.
* The sentence is devoid of emotion and specific detail. This emphasizes the sense of hopelessness and the acceptance of their fate. They are simply "going down to the water" without any sense of hope or purpose.
Ultimately, the last sentence leaves the reader with a feeling of melancholy and uncertainty about the future. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity and loss, life goes on.