To reply to the original question; which flight path would I follow?
Well, I would follow the fligh path that would ensure obstacle clearance (you know, the one you are supposed to calculate before take-off...). You are not allowed to take off unless:
a) You are able to follow the SID (after an engine failure at Vef)
b) You (your Company) have made a contingency (emergency) procedure which ensures obstacle clearance.
It is as simple as that! And as for the Class A climb gradient requirements; they have nothing to do with obstacle clearance, they shall merely ensure a minimum of manoeuvring capability during climbout. You guys must distinguish between certification and real-life operations.
And as for that fly straight ahead bull****; what the h*** is that? If you do not have an approved engine failure procedure at hand, then why the hell are you taking off in the first place??? Flying IMC below the MSA without following published procedures is irresponsible and I hope I will never have to fly with any of you "straight-ahead"-guys!