Crossword Genius

Attempt to shoot down Shakespeare? (4,2,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fire at will

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'attempt' is the definition.
I know nothing about this answer so I can't tell whether this works.

'shoot down shakespeare?' is the wordplay.
'shoot' becomes 'fire at' (I've seen this in another clue).
'down shakespeare?' becomes 'will' (I've seen this in another clue. I am not sure about the 'down' bit.).
'fireat'+'will'='FIRE AT WILL'

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for fire at will that I've seen is " Infantry command, usually after volleys".)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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