I agree that sometimes things aren't going to look pretty - especially the closer one gets to their 1RM. That said, if Im going to coach someone on how to perform the DL correctly, you better bet I'm going to coach them to maintain as much of a "neutral" spine as possible. I'd rather people learn spot on technique from the get go, that way when they DO get into trouble with heavier loads they're less likely to hurt themselves.

This is indeed correct .. The upper back can remain relaxed .. It's a deadlift not a bench ... Keeping the upper back relaxed shortens the rom and allows heavier lifting ... The only proviso is your abs need to be real strong and you've got to have a strong upper back via direct row assistance ...